Asiwaju Moshood Shittu, a prominent political figure and former national chairman of the defunct Alliance National Party (ANP), has made a strong call for opposition parties contemplating a merger ahead of the 2027 presidential election to coalesce around Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the former governor of Kano State, as their sole presidential candidate.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Shittu, who also played a pivotal role as the director-general (North) for Kwankwaso’s 2023 presidential campaign under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), articulated his belief that Kwankwaso stands as the most credible and formidable opposition figure capable of mounting a successful challenge against President Bola Tinubu in the next presidential election.
Shittu underscored Kwankwaso’s extensive and diverse experience in governance, citing his tenure as governor of Kano State, his service as a senator, and his previous position as Minister of Defence. He argued that Kwankwaso’s proven track record of public service and his understanding of the nation’s political landscape make him uniquely qualified to lead a unified opposition. “In the current political climate, the opposition needs a strong and unifying leader,” Shittu stated. “Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso possesses the experience, the vision, and the national appeal necessary to bring together diverse political factions and present a credible alternative to the current administration. His track record speaks for itself, and he has demonstrated a commitment to the welfare of the Nigerian people.”
Shittu also emphasized the need for opposition parties to put aside their individual ambitions and prioritize the national interest. He urged them to engage in constructive dialogue and forge a united front, rather than allowing internal divisions to weaken their collective strength.
“The 2027 election presents a crucial opportunity for the opposition to offer a fresh perspective and a new direction for Nigeria,” Shittu said. “By rallying behind a single, strong candidate like Kwankwaso, we can maximize our chances of success and ensure a more competitive and democratic electoral process.”
The former ANP chairman’s endorsement of Kwankwaso comes amidst growing speculation about potential mergers and alliances among opposition parties as they strategize for the upcoming election cycle. Political analysts suggest that a unified opposition could pose a significant challenge to the ruling party, but they also acknowledge the complexities involved in forging such an alliance.
Shittu’s comments have added to the growing debate about the future of Nigerian politics, and whether or not a united opposition can successfully challenge the current ruling party.
