Ganduje Dismisses Obi-Kwankwaso 2027 Ticket, Says It Is 'Dead on Arrival' in Kano

Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has dismissed the proposed presidential ticket of Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), insisting that the alliance would fail to gain meaningful support in Kano State ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, the former Kano State governor expressed confidence that the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket lacks the political strength, governance record, and grassroots appeal needed to convince voters in Kano, one of Nigeria's most politically influential states.

Ganduje stated that he does not believe the proposed ticket has any realistic chance of succeeding in Kano, describing it as "dead on arrival." According to him, both politicians have leadership records that, in his opinion, do not provide enough evidence that they are prepared to lead Nigeria effectively.

Questioning Peter Obi's time as governor of Anambra State, Ganduje asked what lasting legacy the former governor left behind and whether he had held any other significant positions in government that demonstrated his ability to manage the affairs of the country. He argued that leadership experience should be judged not only by holding office but also by the impact made while serving.

The former APC chairman also turned his attention to Rabiu Kwankwaso, noting that the former Kano governor did not serve two consecutive terms in office. Ganduje compared Kwankwaso's tenure with those of former Kano governors Ibrahim Shekarau and himself, both of whom completed two uninterrupted four-year terms after winning re-election.

According to Ganduje, longevity in office reflected the confidence of the electorate, suggesting that Kwankwaso's political history did not place him in the same category. He further questioned what legacy Kwankwaso had left in Kano that would persuade residents of the state and Nigerians at large that he would perform successfully as vice-president if elected.

The comments come as political discussions surrounding possible alliances and party realignments continue to gather momentum ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general election. While several political figures are exploring coalition options aimed at strengthening their electoral chances, leaders across different parties have continued to debate the viability of potential presidential tickets.

Although Ganduje strongly criticized the proposed Obi-Kwankwaso alliance, supporters of both politicians have consistently argued that their individual popularity and combined political influence could reshape the country's political landscape. Neither Peter Obi nor Rabiu Kwankwaso had publicly responded to Ganduje's remarks at the time of reporting.

As preparations for the 2027 elections gradually intensify, political observers expect more debates, alliances, and competing narratives to emerge as parties position themselves for what is expected to be another highly contested presidential race.