Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, the vice-presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress, stated that his decision to run as the running mate to former Anambra Governor Peter Obi in the 2027 presidential election was grounded in the pursuit of national balance, equity, and democratic transformation. Speaking during an interview on the News Agency of Nigeria Personality Interview Series in Abuja, Kwankwaso emphasized that his choice reflected a strategic effort to unify the nation across regional and religious lines. Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor and former Defence Minister, described how his understanding of Obi deepened following their collaboration in the 2023 elections. He noted that initial unfamiliarity with Obi's leadership style gave way to mutual confidence in their ability to collaborate effectively for the benefit of the country. The decision, he said, was informed by discussions with key political groups, including the Kwankwasiyya Movement, supporters of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and the Obidient Movement. These groups collectively believed that a balanced ticket, capable of drawing support from both the North and the South, was essential for meaningful political progress. Kwankwaso highlighted several pressing national issues that reinforced his commitment to the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket. He pointed to escalating security threats, declining agricultural output, and the deterioration of infrastructure as critical factors that necessitated a new political direction. He stressed that economic hardships, particularly affecting farmers in northern regions, underscored the urgency of implementing reforms that could restore stability and prosperity. Additionally, he criticized the lack of tangible improvements in living standards despite the removal of fuel subsidies, arguing that such policies had failed to address systemic inequalities. The former governor also drew parallels to past instances of political sacrifice, citing Sir Ahmadu Bello, who opted to remain Premier of Northern Nigeria instead of pursuing higher office. Kwankwaso suggested that such decisions demonstrated a willingness to prioritize national interests over individual ambitions. He reiterated that his acceptance of the vice-presidential role was driven by a desire to contribute to the common good rather than personal gain. “Being in government is to serve,” he said, emphasizing that public office should be viewed as an opportunity to uplift citizens rather than a means of personal advancement. Kwankwaso further asserted that the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket represented a formidable combination of regional representation, political acumen, and public trust. He claimed that no other coalition could rival their credibility or capacity to deliver transformative governance. This sentiment was echoed in his description of the ticket as a platform capable of uniting diverse segments of Nigerian society under a shared vision for progress. He argued that the partnership embodied the values of fairness, justice, and equity, which were vital for addressing the complex challenges facing the nation. In addition to highlighting the strengths of the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket, Kwankwaso outlined a long-term strategy for political succession. He mentioned that the current arrangement allowed the South to hold the presidency for one term, after which the North would regain its traditional dominance. This approach, he suggested, mirrored historical patterns of power-sharing that had facilitated stable transitions in Nigerian politics. By aligning with Obi, he believed the ticket could lay the groundwork for sustainable national development. Kwankwaso concluded by reaffirming his dedication to the cause of national service. Despite his extensive political career, including roles as a senator, governor, and minister, he framed his acceptance of the vice-presidential post as a continuation of his lifelong commitment to public welfare. His remarks underscored a broader philosophical stance that prioritized collective well-being over individual recognition, reinforcing the idea that true leadership lies in the ability to serve the people.
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