A political ally of Peter Obi, former Anambra State governor, has disclosed that former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has agreed to serve as his running mate in the 2027 presidential election.

The claim was made by Ibrahim Abdulkarim during a television interview on Trust TV, where he said discussions between both camps have advanced beyond mere speculation.

“I can categorically tell you that they have agreed,” Abdulkarim stated.

He said that a mutual understanding has already been reached between the two political figures. He added that supporters of both leaders are not unaware of the development.

“We all know that. Both the Obidient Movement and the Kwankwassiyya Movement are aware of the agreement,” he said.

Sources further indicate that former President Olusegun Obasanjo may have played a key role in brokering the arrangement, encouraging Kwankwaso to accept the vice-presidential slot.

The development followed Kwankwaso’s recent defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move that sparked widespread speculation about strategic realignments ahead of 2027.

Although there has been no official confirmation from either Obi or Kwankwaso, insiders say consultations are ongoing, with party stakeholders closely monitoring the situation.

If formalised, the alliance could rank among the most significant political coalitions heading into the 2027 elections, potentially uniting southern and northern support bases under a single ticket.

The Obidient Movement gained significant national traction during the 2023 general election, while the Kwankwassiyya Movement maintains a strong grassroots base, particularly in northern Nigeria.

Political observers believe such a coalition could significantly reshape the 2027 electoral landscape, potentially influencing voting patterns across regions. (BusinessDay)