The Kwankwasiyya Movement has responded to mounting criticism over the reported political alliance between its national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), calling the backlash unfair and misleading. In a statement released on Friday by Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, the movement’s spokesperson, the group emphasized that while many Nigerians see the partnership as a positive step toward national unity and stronger democracy, some voices—particularly from certain Northern political circles—have launched targeted attacks against Kwankwaso.
The statement noted that critics have resorted to selective narratives and misleading claims aimed at discrediting the senator, suggesting that their real concern is not the cooperation itself but the potential political strength such an alliance could wield. “What appears to be troubling certain interests is not merely the possibility of political cooperation, but the enormous national potential such an alliance represents,” the statement read. The movement argued that the partnership between Kwankwaso and Obi could redefine Nigeria’s opposition politics by bridging long-standing regional and ethnic divides.
Kwankwaso, with his strong grassroots presence in Northern Nigeria, especially in Kano and the Northwest, brings a significant base of support to the table. Meanwhile, Obi enjoys widespread backing among youth, urban voters, and many in Southern Nigeria. Together, the movement believes they represent a new political equation that transcends religion, ethnicity, and regional sentiment. “Naturally, the prospect of both leaders working together introduces a completely new political equation,” the statement said, adding that this is why some quarters are reacting with “panic.”
The Kwankwasiyya Movement also accused critics of applying double standards, pointing out that similar political moves by other leaders are often praised as strategic and patriotic, while Kwankwaso’s efforts are labeled as ambitious or disruptive. “This double standard is both unfortunate and revealing,” the statement noted. The group maintained that any objective observer would recognize the transformative potential of such an alliance, which could fundamentally reshape Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
The movement defended Kwankwaso’s political legacy, stressing that his relevance stems from years of service, grassroots engagement, and the trust of millions, not from media manipulation or federal influence. It rejected attempts to reduce the development into petty propaganda or personality attacks, urging political actors and commentators to focus on national interest. “Democracy thrives through coalition-building, inclusion, and healthy political competition—not through selective hostility,” the statement emphasized.
As Nigeria grapples with economic hardship, insecurity, and governance challenges, the movement called for issue-based politics and credible leadership. It concluded by reaffirming its commitment to a democratic future built on unity, mutual respect, and constructive national engagement. The coming together of Kwankwaso and Obi may signal a new era of political collaboration that could reshape Nigeria’s political dynamics in the years ahead.
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