Rabiu Kwankwaso, who served as the vice-presidential candidate for the National Democratic Congress, has challenged statements made by former Borno State Governor Ali Modu Sheriff. Sheriff had previously claimed that northern voters would reject Peter Obi in the 2027 presidential contest.
During a Monday appearance on Channels Television, Kwankwaso argued that Sheriff’s assertions were not based on political reality. Instead, he suggested that the former governor was merely attempting to win approval from the current administration. Kwankwaso stated that Sheriff’s remarks were an effort to impress the leadership at the Villa rather than a genuine analysis of regional sentiment.
Regarding his own political standing in Kano, Kwankwaso dismissed suggestions that his influence had waned. He noted that he finds it advantageous when opponents underestimate his reach, as it allows him to work quietly behind the scenes. He asserted that the political landscape in Kano and throughout northern Nigeria is far more supportive than Sheriff described.
Highlighting Peter Obi’s electoral history, Kwankwaso pointed to the 2023 presidential election results as evidence of enduring support. He observed that Obi secured over two million votes in northern Nigeria, a total he considers significant. Kwankwaso concluded that Obi remains a formidable candidate in the North, noting that those who supported him in previous elections continue to represent a strong base of voters.
