Politics
Kwankwaso Denies APC Alliance, Says Obi-Kwankwaso Ticket Is Independent
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has ruled out any possibility of the party’s presidential ticket stepping down for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or any other political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a strongly worded statement released on Sunday, the former Kano State governor also dismissed widespread speculations that the NDC joint ticket, led by former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and himself, popularly known as the “OK ticket,” is secretly working for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Rejection of Withdrawal Rumours
Kwankwaso expressed deep concern over what he described as deliberate mischief and unnecessary attacks against him, Peter Obi, and the NDC by the ADC Presidential Campaign Council (ADC-PCC).
He accused the rival campaign of focusing on propaganda rather than presenting the competence, credibility, and capacity of its own candidate to the Nigerian electorate.
According to Kwankwaso, the NDC has consistently presented its credentials and record of achievements to the public, while the ADC-PCC appears determined to create confusion.
He warned supporters that political opponents might attempt to mislead voters on the eve of the election by falsely claiming that the NDC ticket had withdrawn from the race or endorsed another candidate.
“Let me state clearly and unequivocally: we will not withdraw our candidature for the ADC or any other party,” Kwankwaso declared. “We remain confident in our capacity, competence, and readiness to lead Nigeria.”
Denial of APC Proxy Claims
The former governor strongly rejected claims that the Obi-Kwankwaso alliance is operating as a proxy to help the ruling party retain power.
He maintained that the NDC remains a fully independent and formidable opposition force
“The OK ticket is neither working for nor acting on behalf of the APC or any of its candidates,” Kwankwaso stated.
“We see no possibility or reason to withdraw from the presidential race in favour of the ADC candidate or any other. These claims are unfounded and should be treated as such.”
He advised the ADC campaign team to redirect its attention to the serious allegations levelled against its own presidential candidate by Vice President Kashim Shettima, rather than engaging in what he described as unwarranted hostility towards the NDC.
A Formidable Third Force
The “OK ticket” emerged following recent political realignments that saw Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso join the NDC.
The partnership is positioned as a formidable third force aimed at attracting broad electoral support across Nigeria’s Northern and Southern geopolitical zones.
Kwankwaso criticised both the current administration and the ADC, arguing that neither offers a viable path forward for the country.
He maintained that the APC-led government had failed Nigerians, while the ADC had failed to present a better alternative.
He described the NDC ticket as a “healing ticket” committed to promoting national unity and addressing critical challenges across key sectors, including security, education, agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, and the economy.
Urging supporters to remain committed to securing victory at the polls, Kwankwaso concluded with the ticket’s central campaign message: “Nigeria will be OK.”