Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano, says he has started “wide-ranging consultations” on his next political move following the recent judgement of the supreme court on the leadership tussle in the African Democratic Congress, ADC.
Since the conclusion of the national summit of all opposition political parties held in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, last month, speculations have linked Kwankwaso to a possible joint presidential ticket with Peter Obi, ex-governor of Anambra.
The rumours intensified in recent days, with supporters of both politicians sharing campaign posters on social media.
Reports also emerged on Saturday suggesting that both men were on the verge of finalising plans to leave the ADC for the National Democratic Congress, NDC, over uncertainty surrounding the party’s ticket.
Speaking with The Cable on Friday, Habibu Mohammed, spokesperson of the Kwankwasiyya movement, said the move had been sealed following unanimous endorsement by stakeholders.
However, in a statement on Saturday night, Kwankwaso dismissed the claims, saying no final decision has been taken regarding his political future.
“We have noted recent media reports and discussions suggesting a possible realignment within the African Democratic Congress due to the current challenges facing the party,” the statement reads.
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“In light of the misleading narratives in the public domain, I wish to state categorically that no final decision has been taken regarding my political future or that of my political associates.”
The former governor of Kano noted that contrary to widespread claims, the ADC is yet to take a position on its 2027 presidential ticket, adding that he has not made any decision either.
“The ADC is yet to zone its presidential ticket or take any decision on a candidate. I have therefore neither declared any intention to run for president nor endorsed any aspirant. All speculations to the contrary are premature and unfounded,” Kwankwaso said.
On Thursday, the supreme court voided the court of appeal ruling asking parties in the leadership crisis within the ADC to maintain the status quo ante bellum.
A five-member panel of the apex court, headed by Mohammed Garba, directed the David Mark-led ADC faction to return to the federal high court for the hearing and determination of the issues arising from the dispute.
Kwankwaso said the apex court ruling has left the party in “a precarious position.”
“We left the NNPP due to externally influenced legal problems that made our stay perilous. The ADC has now been also forced into this difficulty,” he said.
“Consequently, like other major stakeholders, we have commenced wide-ranging consultations — including with leaders from the NDC, PRP and others to explore the best options for protecting our democratic interests. We shall announce our decision in the soonest possible time.”
He, however, noted that his absence from recent ADC meetings was due to unavoidable personal commitments well communicated to the party’s leadership and not as a result of any imminent defection.
Kwankwaso said any definitive decision on his political direction would be formally communicated through official channels.
Th Cable
