The vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has expressed regret over his failure to form an alliance with the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during the 2023 general election.
Kwankwaso said a joint ticket with Obi could have unseated the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and changed the political direction of the country.
The former Kano State governor made the remarks on Saturday while addressing party supporters at the 360 Event Centre in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital.
Reflecting on the 2023 election, Kwankwaso admitted that he did not fully understand Obi’s political strength and appeal at the time, adding that a better understanding could have influenced his decision.
“I did not truly understand Peter Obi until now. Had I understood him better in 2023, we would have collaborated and ousted the All Progressives Congress from the presidency,” he said.
Before the 2023 presidential election, efforts to secure an alliance between the two politicians failed after Kwankwaso reportedly insisted that his political experience and academic qualifications, including his PhD, placed him in a stronger position to lead a joint ticket.
However, Kwankwaso described his current alliance with Obi ahead of the 2027 general election as a significant development that could provide an opportunity to reposition the country for progress.
He also disclosed that the NDC leadership had agreed to have him head the Minister of Education if the party wins the 2027 presidential election.
