Opposition Blasts Ganduje Over Dismissal of Obi-Kwankwaso Alliance

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has drawn criticism from opposition groups following his remarks dismissing the possibility of a joint presidential ticket between Labour Party’s Peter Obi and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP)’s Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Among those reacting are the National Democratic Coalition (NDC) and members of the Obidient Movement, who described Ganduje’s comments as an attempt to divert attention from the country’s pressing economic and security challenges.

The controversy followed Ganduje’s assertion that neither Obi nor Kwankwaso possesses the political strength to unseat the APC in 2027. He also argued that both politicians would be unwilling to step aside for one another, making any proposed alliance unrealistic.

Responding to the remarks, opposition supporters insisted that discussions on a possible coalition remain an internal matter and should not be dismissed by the ruling party. They argued that efforts to build a united opposition would provide Nigerians with a credible alternative in the next presidential election.

The groups further urged the APC leadership to focus on addressing issues affecting citizens, including inflation, the rising cost of living, insecurity and broader economic concerns, rather than commenting on opposition strategies.

Political analysts say talks of an Obi-Kwankwaso alliance continue to attract attention because of the potential electoral strength such a coalition could command across different regions of the country. However, neither the Labour Party nor the NNPP has officially announced a joint presidential ticket for the 2027 election.

As political consultations continue ahead of the next electoral cycle, coalition discussions are expected to remain a key feature of Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.