Obi and Kwankwaso call for unity and security during Sultan visit

Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, the presidential and vice-presidential candidates of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, visited the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on Monday. The meeting took place in Sokoto before the pair’s planned town-hall engagements in the state. Obi said the visit offered an opportunity to discuss the need to unite and secure Nigeria, tackle poverty, create jobs and rebuild confidence in the country.

According to Obi, the delegation also offered condolences to the Sultan over the recent death of the Sardauna of Sokoto. He described the meeting as a courtesy visit involving Kwankwaso and members of their political team. Obi said the Sultan recalled knowing him for almost 46 years, dating from 1980, when Obi was in his first year at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

He added that the Sultan had emphasised the responsibility carried by leaders and the accountability they ultimately face. The Sultan identified security, poverty and employment as three critical priorities for Nigeria, Obi said. He also urged that the country’s tribal diversity be treated as a strength rather than a weakness.

Obi and Kwankwaso previously contested the 2023 presidential election separately. Obi ran for the Labour Party, while Kwankwaso represented the New Nigeria Peoples Party. They are now running together on the NDC platform.

The political landscape has changed ahead of the 2027 election. Atiku Abubakar is seeking the presidency under the African Democratic Congress, while President Bola Tinubu is seeking a second term. Omoyele Sowore is contesting under the African Action Congress.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027. The commission has also published the final list of 18 presidential candidates and their running mates.