Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has described former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi as a politician with strong popularity that extends beyond the South-East, saying he commands support across many parts of northern Nigeria.
Kwankwaso made the remarks during an interview with Trust TV on Sunday, where he stressed that politics should be driven by competence, experience and inclusiveness rather than ethnic or religious considerations.
According to him, Obi’s appeal cuts across regional boundaries, making him a significant figure in Nigeria’s political landscape.
“Peter Obi is from the South-East, but today he is a very popular politician across the South and in many parts of northern Nigeria,” Kwankwaso said.
He maintained that Obi’s popularity is undeniable, while also highlighting the growing influence of the Kwankwasiyya movement nationwide.
Kwankwaso said the movement continues to attract young Nigerians searching for leadership and opportunities rather than ethnic or personal affiliations.
“We are fortunate that our supporters are mainly young men and women looking for a better future. They are not focused on whether someone is their brother, sister or close associate,” he said.
The former governor also reflected on past political alliances, noting that the movement had once supported Obi and contributed significantly to his political strength.
“We supported him and brought about two million votes until he left. I don’t think he wanted to hear us in the villa. We are Northerners, we are Muslims, and everybody knows that,” he stated.
Kwankwaso argued that successful politics in Nigeria must embrace diversity and national unity, warning against leadership choices based solely on identity.
“It is not because someone is your neighbour, your brother or shares your religion that the person is best suited to lead. Nigerians should look at people with capacity and those who can deliver,” he added.
He also recalled his experience serving under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who appointed him Minister of Defence, saying leadership should always prioritise ability and performance.
Kwankwaso’s comments come amid fresh political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election, following the decision of the Nigeria Democratic Congress to zone its presidential ticket to the South for a single four-year term.
