The Kwankwasiyya movement has faulted recent remarks by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar suggesting a decline in the political influence of its leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, particularly in Kano State.
The rebuttal came amid ongoing negotiations and positioning within the opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking on Trust TV, spokesperson of the movement,
Habib Mailemo, insisted that only Kwankwaso and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi enjoy genuine nationwide “organic” followership driven by personal conviction rather than political structures or inducement.
“It is only Peter Obi and my principal, Alhaji Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, that have organic followers whose support is not driven by inducement. Their popularity is rooted in competence and track records,” he said.
Mailemo urged opposition leaders to focus less on personal rivalry and more on national recovery, noting that Kwankwaso’s participation in coalition talks is aimed at “rescuing Nigeria.”
Responding to claims that Atiku enjoys stronger support in the North, he acknowledged the former vice president’s long political experience but argued that his past electoral strength was largely backed by party machinery rather than personal appeal.
He contrasted this with Obi and Kwankwaso, saying both politicians demonstrated independent electoral influence outside dominant party structures, which made their impact more visible in recent elections.
Mailemo further said meaningful comparison would require testing candidates without strong party backing, adding that political structures, like that which produced late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, often play decisive roles in elections.
He also urged unity within the opposition coalition, saying its key figures must assess their strengths honestly to present a credible alternative to the ruling party in 2027.
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