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Peter Obi’s Sallah visit to Rabiu Kwankwaso in Kano rekindles talks of a united opposition front, with Obasanjo reportedly leading reconciliation efforts.
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Sunday, paid a Sallah visit to Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, in Kano State, sparking renewed speculation about a possible political alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to a post shared on X by Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, the meeting focused on “strategising for our collective interest to make Nigeria work again for all of us.”
The visit has reignited discussions about a potential Obi–Kwankwaso coalition, a partnership many analysts believe could have altered the outcome of the 2023 presidential election, where both men ran separately and split opposition votes.
Obasanjo Reportedly Leading Reconciliation Efforts
Sumner Sambo, Politics Editor at Arise News, revealed that former President Olusegun Obasanjo is spearheading efforts to unite key opposition figures, including Obi and Kwankwaso, under a single platform.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show, Sambo said Obasanjo had set up a committee in December 2025 to facilitate talks between both camps, with consultations already ongoing in Kano.
He added that the success of the proposed coalition would depend on the ability of ADC leaders to manage competing interests and build consensus among opposition blocs.
Nigerians Yearn for Obi–Kwankwaso Alliance — NNPP
The National Legal Adviser of the NNPP, Magaji Mato, said Nigerians are increasingly calling for an Obi–Kwankwaso alliance, describing it as a long-awaited partnership that could reshape Nigeria’s political future.
He described the public reaction to Obi’s visit as “overwhelming,” noting that grassroots support for the alliance is growing rapidly.
Talks Gaining Momentum — Obidient Movement
Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, confirmed that discussions between both camps have been ongoing since 2023, aimed at building a broad-based coalition to rescue Nigeria.
He described the alliance as timely, citing widespread public dissatisfaction with the current administration and the need for energetic, reform-minded leadership.
Analysts: Alliance Could Be Opposition’s Last Hope
Public affairs analyst Nduka Odo of Peaceland University, Enugu, described the Obi–Kwankwaso meeting as a turning point for Nigeria’s opposition, calling it the “only light in the tunnel” ahead of 2027.
He warned that the ruling APC’s dominance threatens opposition politics, noting that many opposition governors have defected to the ruling party since 2023.
Odo said the economic hardship, insecurity, and rising cost of living under the current administration have created a strong case for a united opposition.