2027: Kwankwaso confirms written one-term agreement with Obi
By Cynthia Alo
LAGOS — Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano State and vice-presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), expressed confidence on Wednesday that the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, will uphold his commitment to serve a single four-year term if elected in 2027. Kwankwaso revealed that both he and Obi signed a written agreement regarding this pledge.
In an interview with Channels Television, Kwankwaso detailed the terms of the agreement, which stipulates that power would return to northern Nigeria following Obi’s tenure. He stated he had no reason to doubt Obi’s integrity regarding the arrangement.
“I personally believe him and don’t think he will change his mind when the time comes,” Kwankwaso said. “We are all gentlemen, even though we have accepted to put it on paper.”
Kwankwaso emphasized the importance of the agreement, referring to it as “sacrosanct.” He noted that in addition to the agreement between himself and Obi, they also forged a separate agreement with the party on this matter.
“The agreement confirms that after four years, we will work together as a group, as a party, as friends and brothers so that after his term from 2027 to 2031, power returns to the North,” he explained.
When questioned about his decision to accept the vice-presidential position after initially pursuing the presidency, Kwankwaso cited the current political landscape as a factor favoring a four-year term for a southern president.
“We felt the presidency should go to the South for four years, after which it will return to the North,” Kwankwaso added. “We believe that this should be the consensus for everyone in this country to foster unity between North and South.”
Regarding his future political aspirations, Kwankwaso mentioned that the party is primarily focused on its immediate goals while remaining mindful of future strategies.
“We have a short-term plan that we are executing now, and of course, we are also considering our medium- and long-term plans for the country,” he said.
Peter Obi has previously stated his intention to serve only one term if elected president in 2027, emphasizing that he seeks stability and would not extend his term beyond four years.
Obi’s declaration, however, has faced skepticism from opposition parties, who argue that he may not uphold his promise if elected.
