Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has ruled out the possibility of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) withdrawing its presidential ticket in favour of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general election.
Kwankwaso, who is the NDC’s vice-presidential candidate alongside presidential candidate Peter Obi, also accused the ADC Presidential Campaign Council (ADC-PCC) of launching unnecessary attacks against him, Obi and their party.
In a statement, Kwankwaso dismissed allegations suggesting that the NDC was working for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or planning to withdraw from the presidential race in favour of the ADC candidate.
He said the allegations were unfounded, insisting that the NDC remained committed to its presidential ambition and confident in its ability to win the election.
“Let me state clearly and unequivocally: we will not withdraw our candidature for the ADC or any other party,” he said.
Kwankwaso accused the ADC campaign team of focusing on attacking the NDC rather than presenting the credentials and achievements of its own presidential candidate to Nigerians.
He urged the ADC-PCC to concentrate on responding to allegations levelled against its candidate by Vice-President Kashim Shettima instead of targeting the NDC leadership.
The former Kano State governor further warned that the ADC campaign team might attempt to mislead NDC supporters on the eve of the election by claiming that the party intended to withdraw its presidential ticket.
He maintained that neither he nor Obi was working for the APC or any of its candidates, adding that there was no reason for the NDC to step aside for the ADC or any other political party.
Assessing the country’s political landscape, Kwankwaso said the APC-led government had failed Nigerians, while the ADC did not offer a better alternative.
He described the NDC’s presidential ticket, popularly known as the OK ticket, as a credible alternative, citing its capacity, track record, credibility and support across Northern and Southern Nigeria.
According to him, the ticket is committed to national unity and addressing Nigeria’s major challenges, including insecurity, education, agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare and economic development.
Kwankwaso also declared the NDC the country’s most formidable and viable opposition party, urging its supporters and other well-meaning Nigerians to remain committed to its electoral victory.
He concluded by expressing optimism about the country’s future, declaring: “Nigeria will be OK.”
