Atiku, Kwankwaso rally opposition bloc for 2027

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has stepped up consultations with major opposition leaders following the defection of former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

In a statement on Wednesday, Atiku confirmed he met separately with Kwankwaso and the ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, in Abuja, describing both engagements as part of ongoing efforts to reposition the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“I paid a courtesy visit to my brother and partner, His Excellency Rabiu Kwankwaso. We had quality discussions on the progress of our party, the ADC, and how we must continue the work to ensure good governance and recovery for the people,” Atiku said.

He added that his visit to Senator Mark offered an opportunity to exchange ideas on strengthening the party and restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.

Kwankwaso’s dramatic defection earlier in the week has energized renewed opposition realignments, with analysts noting that his widespread grassroots appeal significantly boosts the ADC’s prospects as a unifying platform for dissatisfied political blocs.

The former governor and his supporters were formally received by Mark at a grand event hosted at Kwankwaso’s Miller Road residence in Kano.

The gathering drew several influential figures, including Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and former Sokoto State governor Aminu Tambuwal.

Political observers say the high-profile meetings signal the early stages of alliance-building that could reshape the landscape ahead of the 2027 polls.