ADC Powerbrokers Consider Obi–Kwankwaso Ticket Amid US Pressure on Tinubu Government

By Kabir Akin/Robo Bare

Abuja- This may not be the best times for President Bola Tinubu 2027 presidential ambition if the information at our disposal is anything to go by.

Dependable sources revealed that Senior political figures within and around the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are reportedly weighing a possible Peter Obi–Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso presidential ticket as opposition forces reposition ahead of Nigeria’s next general election.

Multiple sources familiar with the talks told our reporters the consultations are intensifying, driven by both domestic political calculations and emerging international dynamics, particularly renewed diplomatic pressure from the United States on the Bola Tinubu administration.

Trump’s Rhetoric and Nigeria–US Tensions
The discussions come against the backdrop of repeated allegations by US President Donald Trump, who has accused Nigeria of what he describes as “Christian genocide” claimed that have been strongly disputed by Nigerian religious and civil society groups.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna State and other credible local stakeholders have dismissed the allegations as inaccurate and capable of inflaming tensions. However, diplomatic strains between Washington and Abuja have reportedly persisted despite these rebuttals.

International Considerations Shape Opposition Strategy
Sources within the ADC stressed the party strategists believe certain influential political blocs in the United States may favour a Christian presidential candidate in Nigeria’s next election cycle, or at least a religiously balanced ticket.

This perception is said to stem from recent US policy actions and rhetoric, including:
Nigeria’s redesignation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act;
Targeted visa restrictions against Nigerian individuals accused of involvement in religiously motivated violence; Strong public statements by Trump, including threats of military action against terrorist groups operating in parts of northern Nigeria.

“In the worst-case scenario, some international interests may tolerate a Muslim–Christian ticket, but certainly not another Muslim–Muslim combination,” a source involved in the consultations said.

Obasanjo Reportedly Plays Behind-the-Scenes Role
Investigations further indicate that former President Olusegun Obasanjo is quietly engaging political actors, party leaders, and civil society groups to explore the feasibility of a broad opposition alliance.

According to sources, Obasanjo believes Nigeria requires a balanced, inclusive leadership arrangement to stabilise the polity and reset the country’s democratic direction.

Why Obi and Kwankwaso?
Supporters of the emerging alliance hinted the Obi–Kwankwaso combination offers regional and religious balance:
Peter Obi, former Anambra State governor and the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, is seen as appealing to southern voters and urban youth blocs. Sources claim he has held extensive consultations with the ADC.
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Kano State governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, is regarded as a strong political bridge across the North-West and North-Central regions.

ADC Emerges as New Opposition Hub
Although the ADC has not officially adopted a presidential ticket, the party is increasingly viewed as a convergence platform for opposition figures disenchanted with both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the internally divided Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
While former Vice President Atiku Abubakar remains politically active, insiders argued the coming months will determine whether the Obi–Kwankwaso option crystallises into a formal challenge.

Efforts to reach representatives of both Obi and Kwankwaso were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.