Obi: Kwankwaso Won’t Be a Spare Tyre

ABUJA, Nigeria — Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has pledged to run an inclusive government if elected in 2027, assuring Nigerians that his running mate, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, will serve as an equal partner in governance rather than a ceremonial vice president.

Obi made the declaration on Saturday while unveiling Kwankwaso as his vice-presidential candidate at the NDC National Convention in Abuja, where delegates formally ratified his candidacy for the 2027 presidential election.

The former Anambra State governor said his administration would be built on consultation, collaboration and shared responsibility, stressing that both leaders would work together in making key decisions affecting the country.

According to Obi, Nigeria’s challenges require collective leadership and a governance structure that encourages accountability and inclusiveness.

Kwankwaso Will Play Active Role in Government

Speaking during his acceptance speech, Obi said the days of a vice president being sidelined from governance should be over, insisting that his administration would operate differently.

“The government we intend to form will no longer be a government where anybody will say that the vice president is a spare tyre,” Obi said.

“The vice president will be a partner because we want to build a nation where there are two equal people who work for the greatness of the country.

“Decisions will be taken as partners. Everybody will be consulted. That is what we require, and that is how government functions.”

Obi said the proposed arrangement reflects his belief in teamwork and participatory leadership, adding that governance should not revolve around one individual.

He noted that meaningful consultation and partnership are essential for addressing issues such as insecurity, unemployment, poverty and economic instability.

The former governor also praised Kwankwaso’s leadership credentials, describing him as a committed public servant who shares similar values and aspirations for Nigeria.

Also Read: Johannesburg recovers millions after an investigation into unused airtime and data waste

Obi, Kwankwaso Unite Under NDC Banner

Obi said his choice of Kwankwaso was informed by their shared commitment to building a more equitable society where opportunities are available to all Nigerians regardless of ethnicity, religion or social background.

“He believes in education and security. And we will work together to ensure it happens,” Obi said as he welcomed Kwankwaso to the stage.

The announcement formally brings together two of the country’s most prominent opposition figures under a single presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 election.

According to reports gathered by RMNews360, Obi and Kwankwaso joined the NDC in May after leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing uncertainties surrounding the party’s future direction.

The alliance is expected to strengthen the NDC’s national reach, combining Obi’s support base across southern Nigeria and among young voters with Kwankwaso’s considerable political influence in Kano State and parts of northern Nigeria.

Kwankwaso, who contested the 2023 presidential election on the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), won Kano State and remains one of the most influential political figures in the North-West region.

NDC Positions Itself for 2027 Challenge

The unveiling of the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket marks a significant step in the NDC’s preparations for the 2027 presidential election as the party seeks to challenge the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The development also comes weeks after Obi pledged to serve only a single four-year term if elected president, promising to focus on reducing the cost of governance, improving electricity supply, supporting businesses and tackling unemployment.

With the convention concluded and the presidential ticket now confirmed, attention is expected to shift to the party’s campaign strategy and efforts to build nationwide support ahead of the polls.

For Obi, Saturday’s announcement was not only about unveiling a running mate but also about presenting a vision of governance that he says will prioritise partnership, inclusiveness and collective responsibility at the highest levels of government.

Segun Lasisi

A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.