By Eunice Orike
The vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has dismissed claims by former Borno State governor, Ali Modu Sheriff, that the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, lacks the support needed to win votes in Northern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general election.
Kwankwaso,in a statement issued to journalists, criticised Sheriff over comments he made during an interview on channels television, describing them as misleading and out of touch with the political reality in the North.
He said he was disappointed by Sheriff’s remarks, adding that after staying away from public discussions for some time, many Nigerians had expected the former governor to offer more thoughtful opinions.
Kwankwaso challenged Sheriff’s claim that Obi has little political strength in the North, saying the former Anambra State governor already has a proven support base in the region.
According to him, Obi polled about 2.8 million votes across Northern Nigeria in the last presidential election, a performance he said should not be ignored.
He also argued that the current economic hardship and growing dissatisfaction with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has strengthened the chances of the NDC’s presidential ticket in the 2027 election.
Kwankwaso said the combination of Obi and a strong Northern running mate, whom he said previously secured about 1.45 million votes in the region, makes the party’s ticket a serious political force.
Reacting to Sheriff’s claim that Kano voters would not support Obi, Kwankwaso said the people of the state are known for voting based on conviction rather than ethnic or religious sentiments.
He said Kano people have consistently supported candidates endorsed by the Kwankwasiyya movement and would do so again if they believe the ticket is credible.
Kwankwaso also urged Sheriff to focus more on the security and humanitarian challenges facing Borno State instead of making comments that could divide Nigerians.
According to him, national leaders should use every opportunity to promote unity and offer solutions to the country’s problems rather than engage in statements capable of creating political tension.
Kwankwaso maintained that the NDC’s presidential ticket offers Nigerians a credible alternative and remains committed to providing leadership that will unite the country, improve governance and restore public confidence.
