Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has addressed growing speculation surrounding his political future, following recent developments within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Philips News reports that former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso responded to reports suggesting a possible defection or realignment in a detailed statement on Saturday night, making it clear that no final decision has been taken regarding his next political move.
Position on 2027 Presidential Ambition
Addressing speculation about a potential presidential bid, Kwankwaso stated clearly that he has not declared any intention to contest in the 2027 elections.
He also noted that the ADC has not yet made decisions regarding zoning or candidate selection, making any claims about his candidacy premature.
Kwankwaso stressed that throughout his political career, he has consistently prioritized party unity and national interest over personal ambition.
Track Record of Party Loyalty
The former governor reflected on his past political engagements, highlighting instances where he supported party decisions after contesting for leadership positions.
He recalled his participation in the 2014 presidential primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he backed the eventual winner.
Similarly, he referenced his role in the 2019 elections under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he supported the party’s candidate and contributed to campaign efforts.
Absence from ADC Meetings Explained
Kwankwaso also addressed concerns over his absence from recent ADC stakeholders’ meetings, clarifying that it was due to personal commitments.
He stated that he had formally communicated his apologies to the party leadership and remains engaged with ongoing discussions.
Read the full statement below…
“Clarification on My Political Position
“We have noted recent media reports and discussions suggesting a possible realignment within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) due to the current challenges facing the party.
“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 recent Supreme Court judgment, while affirming the legitimacy of the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC), also remitted the matter back to the High Court. This has left the party in a precarious position.
“In addition, the Federal High Court has recently ruled to delegitimise the party’s recent convention. The Attorney General of the Federation has also strangely applied to a Federal High Court to deregister the ADC.
“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.
“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.
“On the issue of presidential candidacy, I wish to recall my consistent record as a committed democrat. In the 2014 APC presidential primary, I came second to President Muhammadu Buhari (whom I fully supported to victory), with Atiku Abubakar third, Rochas Okorocha fourth, and the late Sam Nda-Isaiah fifth. Similarly, in 2019, I contested the PDP presidential ticket and immediately supported the winner, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, serving as the campaign’s coordinator in the North. I have always placed national interest and party unity above personal ambition.
“Furthermore, 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.
“My absence from the two recent ADC stakeholders’ meetings was due to unavoidable personal commitments. I promptly communicated my apologies to the party leadership.
“We shall continue to engage constructively at all levels. Any definitive position on our political direction will be communicated formally through official channels at the appropriate time,” the statement added.
What to Expect Next
Kwankwaso assured supporters and political observers that consultations are still in progress and that a final decision regarding his political direction will be announced soon.
He reiterated his commitment to constructive engagement and maintaining stability within Nigeria’s democratic process.
Meanwhile, PhilipsNews reports that Rabiu Kwankwaso’s statement provides clarity amid growing speculation about his political future. While acknowledging challenges within the ADC, he has made it clear that no definitive move has been made.
As political realignments continue ahead of the 2027 elections, his next steps are expected to remain a key point of interest in Nigeria’s political landscape.
