Obi-Kwankwaso alliance talks for the 2027 presidential election have moved beyond speculation, with behind-the-scenes coordination now underway. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo is reportedly driving the plan, backing a joint ticket under the African Democratic Congress to challenge President Bola Tinubu.
Sources within the ADC say Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso have already set up a joint committee to map out strategy and secure party support. The move follows Obi’s defection to the ADC and ongoing efforts to persuade Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor, to formally join the party.
According to party insiders, Obasanjo proposed the partnership and encouraged Obi to work with Kwankwaso on a presidential–vice-presidential arrangement. The former president is also said to be linking the duo with key northern power brokers to strengthen the ticket’s national appeal.
Obasanjo openly supported Obi during the 2023 election and has never hidden his skepticism about another presidential run by his former vice president, Atiku Abubakar. Atiku, Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi are currently listed as ADC presidential aspirants, while negotiations with Kwankwaso continue.
Kwankwaso has reportedly agreed in principle to run as vice president, especially after Obi publicly committed to serving a single term if elected. Senior figures in the Kwankwasiyya Movement confirmed that discussions are advanced, describing the alliance as “on track” and purpose-driven.
ADC officials acknowledge conversations around the Obi-Kwankwaso alliance but insist no formal agreement exists within the party structure yet. The party says it remains open to Kwankwaso, describing him as a major political force.
Atiku’s camp has dismissed any suggestion of threat, stressing that alliances are normal in politics and that the former vice president remains focused on his own path. His spokesperson said broader participation only strengthens the opposition.
Meanwhile, Obi’s loyalists, known as the Obidient Movement, have welcomed the proposed alliance, calling it a potentially powerful combination. However, internal tension is growing over zoning, with Obi supporters pushing for the ticket to remain in the South, a move ADC leaders warn could fracture the coalition.
With committees formed, negotiations active, and heavy political figures involved, the Obi-Kwankwaso alliance is shaping up as a central storyline ahead of 2027.
