Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad has hinted that Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and his supporters may soon defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), potentially reshaping Nigeria's political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Ahmad's suggestion came after Vice President Kashim Shettima referred to Kwankwaso as "NNPP-APC" during a public event, sparking speculation about a possible political realignment.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday night, Ahmad wrote: "If nothing else, Vice President Shettima referring to Senator Kwankwaso as 'NNPP-APC' is a strong signal that the NNPP leader and his teeming supporters are on the verge of joining our great party, the APC."
Ahmad, who served as an aide to former President Muhammadu Buhari, further emphasized that such a move would foster political unity in Kano State, stating: "This will help to have a politically united Kano, something long desired for the progress and stability of our state."
Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) in the 2023 elections, has maintained significant political influence in the northwestern state. His potential defection could dramatically alter the political dynamics in Kano, a crucial state in Nigeria's electoral calculations.
Political analysts view this development as part of broader realignments happening across Nigeria's political landscape as parties begin positioning for the 2027 general elections. The APC, currently Nigeria's ruling party under President Bola Tinubu, would significantly strengthen its position in the northwest if Kwankwaso and his supporters join its ranks.
However, neither Kwankwaso nor the NNPP has officially confirmed or denied these speculations, leaving room for continued debate about the senator's political future.
The relationship between Kwankwaso and the APC has been complex. Having previously been a member of both the APC and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) at different times, Kwankwaso formed the NNPP as a third force in Nigerian politics ahead of the 2023 elections.
Vice President Shettima had recently referred to Kwankwaso as his "brother" during another public event, further fueling speculation about warming relations between the NNPP leader and the ruling party.
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