From Desmond Mgboh, Kano
Vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has ruled out withdrawing from the 2027 presidential election in favour of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or any other political party, declaring that the Peter Obi-led ticket will remain in the race.
Kwankwaso also dismissed allegations that the NDC was secretly working for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the claims as unfounded and part of an attempt to undermine the party’s presidential ambition.
In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Sunday, the former Kano State governor accused the ADC Presidential Campaign Council (ADC-PCC) of abandoning issue-based campaigning in favour of attacks on him, Obi and the NDC leadership.
He expressed concern that suggestions of a possible last-minute withdrawal could be deliberately circulated ahead of the election to confuse supporters and weaken confidence in the party’s presidential ticket.
“Let me state clearly and unequivocally: we will not withdraw our candidature for the ADC or any other party. We remain confident in our capacity, competence, and readiness to lead Nigeria,” he said. Kwankwaso insisted that the NDC presidential ticket, popularly referred to as the “OK ticket”, had no political arrangement with the APC or any of its candidates and would not surrender its ambition to the ADC.
“The OK ticket is neither working for nor acting on behalf of the APC or any of its candidates. There is neither a reason nor any possibility of withdrawing in favour of the ADC candidate.”
Kwankwaso maintained that the NDC remained committed to contesting the presidential election, warning supporters against being misled by reports suggesting otherwise.
He challenged the ADC campaign organisation to concentrate on addressing allegations reportedly made against its presidential candidate by Vice-President Kashim Shettima rather than directing attacks at the NDC leadership.
The former governor argued that neither the APC-led administration nor the ADC represented the political alternative required to address Nigeria’s challenges, insisting that the NDC had developed a programme focused on national unity and development.
He identified insecurity, education, agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare and economic recovery as major priorities of the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket.
According to him, the NDC possesses the capacity, credibility and nationwide support to pursue its agenda and address divisions within the country.
Kwankwaso urged party members and supporters to remain focused on the election and continue mobilising support for the presidential ticket.
“I therefore urge all our supporters and well-meaning Nigerians to continue working toward the victory of our great party,” he declared.
“Nigeria will be OK,” he added.