Obi, Kwankwaso reportedly defect to NDC in Nigeria opposition realignment

Two of Nigeria’s leading opposition figures, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, have reportedly defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in a major political shake-up ahead of next year’s presidential election.

The duo, who placed third and fourth respectively in the 2023 presidential race, were previously associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) alongside former vice-president Atiku Abubakar.

BBC reported that their move has sparked speculation about a possible joint ticket to challenge President Bola Tinubu, although no candidate has yet been named.

Supporters said the shift could strengthen the opposition by creating a more focused alliance, despite concerns it may further fragment an already divided bloc.

Both men are former state governors with strong regional bases, with Obi enjoying widespread support among younger voters in the south, while Kwankwaso commands influence in the north.

The development comes months after they joined the ADC, an alliance that quickly became entangled in leadership disputes now before the courts.

Speaking after their formal reception at the NDC headquarters in Abuja by party leader Seriake Dickson, both politicians called for unity, youth empowerment and an end to opposition infighting.

However, the move has unsettled some allies within the ADC coalition, raising doubts about whether the opposition can mount a coordinated challenge against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The presidency downplayed the defections, describing them as part of normal democratic shifts and insisting the government remains focused on governance priorities.

Analysts said the new alignment could reshape Nigeria’s electoral landscape, especially if Obi and Kwankwaso unite on a single ticket.

Meanwhile, the ADC’s internal leadership crisis continues, with the Supreme Court of Nigeria recently ordering the dispute to return to the Federal High Court, adding pressure as the election season approach.

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