The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, on Sunday paid a high-profile visit to former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, sparking fresh speculation about a possible political realignment ahead of future elections.
The meeting, held at Kwankwaso’s Miller Road residence in Kano, drew a host of influential figures, including Seyi Makinde, Seriake Dickson, and prominent activist Naajatu Mohammed, among others.
The gathering has ignited political conversations nationwide, with growing speculation that Kwankwaso could be weighing a possible defection from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move that could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape.
Speaking during the annual Kwankwassiya Sallah festival, Obi downplayed political undertones, stating that his visit was primarily to celebrate the Sallah festivities and honour Kwankwaso.
“I’m here to felicitate with you on the occasion of Sallah and to pay my respect to our leader,” Obi told the crowd. “Today is not politics; it is the celebration of Sallah.”
However, he used the opportunity to outline his vision for economic revival in Kano, stressing the need to restore the city’s once-thriving industrial base.
Obi specifically referenced the revival of key industrial hubs such as Bompai and Sharada, as well as legacy institutions like the Bank of the North.
“We want to change Kano. We want to build a new Kano. We want to bring back its economic strength,” he said.
The visit underscores a broader effort by Obi and his allies to reconnect with northern stakeholders and reinforce commitments to economic development, while strengthening relationships with influential political actors in the region.
In his remarks, Kwankwaso welcomed the dignitaries and expressed delight at the show of unity, describing the gathering as a reflection of shared respect and the festive spirit of the Sallah celebration.