Former Kano governor says Peter Obi remains a major political force ahead of 2027
Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has openly acknowledged the growing political influence of Peter Obi, declaring that the former Labour Party presidential candidate remains extremely popular across Southern Nigeria and parts of the North.
Kwankwaso made the statement while discussing the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing that Obi’s popularity cannot be dismissed by any serious political actor.
“Peter Obi is a very popular politician in the entire South and many parts of Northern Nigeria and you cannot take that from him,” Kwankwaso reportedly said, while also defending the strength of the Kwankwasiyya political movement.
The remark has already sparked intense political reactions online, with supporters of both camps interpreting the statement as a possible signal of future political realignments ahead of the next presidential race.
Analysts say the comment reflects the changing dynamics of Nigerian politics, especially after the 2023 elections reshaped traditional voting patterns and boosted youth-driven political participation across several regions.
Although no official alliance has been announced, political observers believe growing conversations around opposition coalitions could place figures like Obi and Kwankwaso at the centre of major negotiations ahead of 2027.
The statement has since reignited debates on social media over regional influence, coalition politics, and whether opposition parties can mount a stronger challenge against the ruling APC in the next election cycle.