The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) vice presidential candidate, Rabi’u Kwankwaso, welcomed defectors from the All Progressives Congress (APC) into the NDC and the Kwankwasiyya Movement on Sunday at his residence along Miller Road in Kano State. The group included Danlami Zakari Unguwar Gertai of Gari Local Government Area, Kano State, and his supporters, who formally pledged their loyalty to the movement’s vision for a better Nigeria. The Kwankwasiyya Movement confirmed the event through a social media post, highlighting the significance of the defection as part of growing momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
This development comes just one day after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) published the credentials and personal details of Kwankwaso and the NDC’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, officially recognizing them as candidates for the upcoming elections. Both men were former presidential hopefuls in the 2023 election, having initially contested under different political parties before joining the APC. However, they later left the APC due to internal conflicts, legal disputes, and leadership disagreements within the party. Their move to the NDC signals a strategic realignment aimed at consolidating support across regions and ideological lines.
The reception of the defectors underscores the NDC’s expanding influence, particularly in northern Nigeria, where Kwankwaso has long maintained a strong political base. The arrival of Unguwar Gertai and his followers adds grassroots strength to the movement, reinforcing its appeal beyond urban centers. The Kwankwasiyya Movement emphasized that the new members are committed to advancing the party’s agenda, which includes economic reform, youth empowerment, and national unity.
As the 2027 elections approach, political alliances continue to shift, with parties adapting to changing dynamics and voter sentiment. The defection from APC to NDC reflects broader dissatisfaction among some party members over governance issues and electoral integrity concerns. With INEC’s formal recognition of the NDC candidates, the party is now fully positioned to campaign nationally, leveraging the experience and visibility of both Obi and Kwankwaso.
The integration of these new members into the NDC structure could strengthen the party’s organizational reach, especially in key states like Kano. Political analysts suggest this influx may influence voter behavior in upcoming primaries and local elections. As the campaign season draws nearer, the NDC is expected to intensify its outreach, building on the momentum generated by high-profile defections and public endorsements.
Looking ahead, the consolidation of support around the NDC platform may reshape the political landscape in Nigeria, offering voters an alternative to dominant parties. The movement’s ability to attract defectors from major parties indicates growing public interest in fresh leadership and policy direction.
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