The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has said it is not aware of any formal alliance between the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, describing ongoing discussions as not unusual in Nigeria’s political space.
Speaking with Sunday Punch, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said while the party was open to welcoming Kwankwaso, any talks about a joint ticket were not being driven by the party.
“Kwankwaso is yet to join the ADC, but we are more than willing to have him with us. Obi is also a great politician and an asset to the party. However, whatever discussions they are having are outside the party,” Abdullahi said.
Abdullahi described Kwankwaso as a strong political leader whose presence would be beneficial to the ADC, noting that consultations and conversations among politicians ahead of elections were a normal feature of democratic politics.
Kwankwaso Camp Confirms Advanced Talks
Meanwhile, the National Legal Adviser of the New Nigeria Peoples Party and a leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Magaji Ibrahim (SAN), confirmed that discussions between Obi and Kwankwaso were ongoing.
Ibrahim, who said he was part of the talks, disclosed that a joint committee had been constituted by both camps to mobilise support within the ADC for a proposed joint presidential ticket.
“The former governor is ready to work with Obi either as President or Vice President,” he said, adding that the alliance had reached an advanced stage.