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KEY POINTS

• Obasanjo and Rabiu Kwankwaso met in Kano during the former president’s official visit to the state.
• Kwankwaso’s media aide described the private discussion as warm and constructive, though no details were disclosed.
• The meeting has intensified speculation about political consultations and possible alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, held a private meeting in Kano on Thursday night, further fueling political conversations ahead of the next presidential election.

Kwankwaso visited Obasanjo at his temporary residence in Kano, where the former president was staying during an official engagement in the state. He was accompanied by the former Deputy Governor of Kano State and the NDC’s governorship candidate for the 2027 election, Aminu Gwarzo.

Although details of the discussions were not made public, Kwankwaso’s media aide, Saifullahi Hassan, described the meeting as “warm” and “constructive,” suggesting that both leaders exchanged views on issues of national importance.

The meeting has attracted significant political attention, coming at a time when political parties and key stakeholders are gradually positioning themselves for the 2027 general elections.

Obasanjo has remained one of Nigeria’s most influential political figures despite leaving office in 2007.

Over the years, he has continued to engage with political leaders across party lines and has often spoken on issues relating to governance, democracy and national development.

His latest meeting with Kwankwaso has sparked renewed speculation about possible political alignments and consultations ahead of the 2027 polls, particularly because of his previous endorsement of the NDC’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

Ahead of the 2023 presidential election, Obasanjo publicly declared his support for Obi, describing him as “a needle with thread attached from north and south.” He also expressed confidence that Obi was surrounded by capable individuals who could offer guidance and constructive criticism whenever necessary.

Despite the endorsement, Obi finished third in the 2023 presidential election, behind former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, while President Bola Tinubu emerged victorious.

Political observers believe the latest engagement between Obasanjo and Kwankwaso underscores the increasing pace of consultations among major political figures as parties begin to shape strategies and alliances for the 2027 elections.

Neither Obasanjo nor Kwankwaso disclosed the specific issues discussed during the meeting, but the encounter is expected to generate further interest within Nigeria’s political landscape as preparations for the next general election continue.