Galadima hints at new party for Obi, Kwankwaso

The Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the New Nigeria People’s Party, Buba Galadima, has indicated that a major political realignment may be imminent, revealing that key opposition figures, including Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, are expected to unveil a new political platform on Monday.

Galadima made the disclosure at a stakeholders’ meeting of the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement in Abuja, amid mounting uncertainty over opposition alliances ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. While he did not name the proposed platform, sources cited by The PUNCH said the two former governors were finalising plans to align with a newly formed party, the Nigeria Democratic Congress, reportedly linked to Seriake Dickson.

According to a source familiar with the discussions, Obi, Kwankwaso and their associates had been engaged in meetings to complete formalities required to join the new platform. The source added that the move was partly informed by concerns over internal dynamics within the African Democratic Congress, alleging that it had been shaped to serve the presidential ambitions of Atiku Abubakar.

The anticipated announcement follows weeks of speculation regarding the political future of both leaders, particularly after recent judicial developments affecting opposition parties and their internal structures.

Addressing supporters, Galadima warned of possible backlash following the declaration, including coordinated criticism from commentators and social media actors. He urged supporters to respond strategically, emphasising restraint while preparing to counter what he described as potential attacks on the integrity of opposition figures.

He also alleged that opposition politicians had been subjected to sustained pressure, including actions by security agencies, and claimed that several parties — among them the Peoples Democratic Party, Social Democratic Party and Peoples Redemption Party — had been weakened in recent months.

At the same event, Isaac Fayose expressed support for a potential Obi-Kwankwaso alliance, describing it as a viable alternative ahead of the next election cycle. Meanwhile, activist Aisha Yesufu called for national unity, urging Nigerians to look beyond ethnic and regional divisions and work towards collective progress.

Source: The PUNCH