Former Kano State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has predicted that the 2027 general elections will be the most competitive in Nigeria’s democratic history.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Kwankwaso said Nigerians have become more politically aware and determined to seek real change, describing the upcoming polls as “much tougher” than previous ones.
“I believe the 2027 elections will be much tougher. People are now more informed and more involved. Everyone is seeking a way out of the country’s current situation,” he said. “Thanks to radio and social media, the masses now know more. People will not sell their votes this time; they want real change.”
Kwankwaso, who recently marked his 69th birthday, also expressed NNPP’s willingness to form alliances with other political parties and leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, former President Goodluck Jonathan, and Labour Party’s Peter Obi.
He, however, stressed that any alliance must be based on mutual respect, shared ideals, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
“We are ready for anyone, whether it is the APC, PDP, ADC, Jonathan, or Peter Obi. If we are satisfied with their competence and integrity, we will join forces to achieve success,” he said. “But whoever we align with must be committed to improving the lives of Nigerians. If they fail to meet our expectations, we will not continue with them.”
The former Minister of Defence noted that the NNPP, which fielded candidates across all states in the 2023 elections, has grown into a national force capable of influencing Nigeria’s political direction.
Kwankwaso recalled hinting earlier about possible collaboration with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) but insisted that any such merger must come with tangible benefits for the NNPP’s structures and candidates.
“If you are asking us to join APC, you must tell us what NNPP will gain. We have gubernatorial candidates in all the states and full structures nationwide. What will you offer them if we join?” he queried.
He also criticized Nigeria’s political elite, accusing them of neglecting the plight of ordinary citizens while living in luxury.
“Our people are being killed in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Kaduna. The victims are ordinary citizens. The elites have fled to Abuja, where they live in luxury, building big houses and driving expensive cars while enriching themselves at the expense of the people,” Kwankwaso said. “They act as if they are untouchable, but I am confident that Allah will judge them accordingly.”
