THE national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples’ Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has declared that he would only align with any political party ahead of the 2027 general elections if he is offered either the presidential ticket or the vice-presidential slot.
News Point Nigeria reports that Kwankwaso made the declaration late Thursday while addressing supporters at a Kwankwasiyya movement gathering held at his residence on Miller Road, Kano, amid growing political realignments and speculations over possible defections ahead of the next election cycle.
“At the national level, we are looking for a political party to align with,” the former Kano State governor said. “But it must be a party that will offer me either the presidential ticket or the vice-presidential slot.”
His remarks come against the backdrop of intense political speculation surrounding the future of the NNPP, particularly in Kano State, following reports suggesting that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf could defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Reacting to the reports, Kwankwaso dismissed the speculation, describing it as baseless and unrealistic.
“That is nothing but a dream,” he said, rejecting claims that the Kano governor or the Kwankwasiyya movement was considering a move to the APC.
Kwankwaso also took a swipe at the political strategy of the ruling party, arguing that numerical strength within a party does not automatically translate to electoral victory.
According to him, the APC’s control of a large number of state governments does not guarantee success at the polls, stressing that credibility, performance, and popular support remain the true determinants of electoral outcomes.
“Having many governors does not mean you will win elections,” he said, insisting that Nigerians were becoming increasingly politically aware and would judge leaders based on competence and delivery rather than party dominance.
The former defence minister further warned politicians against underestimating voters, noting that political power ultimately rests with the people and not with party structures alone.
Kwankwaso’s comments have added fresh momentum to discussions around opposition coalitions and alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, as several political heavyweights continue to explore platforms capable of challenging the ruling party.
Observers say his firm stance signals a refusal to play a secondary role in any future alliance and underscores his continued ambition to remain a central figure in Nigeria’s national political landscape.
As parties intensify behind-the-scenes negotiations and recalibrate strategies ahead of 2027, Kwankwaso’s declaration is expected to influence coalition talks, particularly among opposition blocs seeking to present a unified front in the next general elections.