A leading member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Illiyasu Musa Kwankwaso, who serves as the representative of the Forum of Federal Government Appointees, has argued that the proposed presidential partnership between Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso lacks the nationwide influence and widespread political backing necessary to triumph in Nigeria’s presidential race.
Illiyasu made the statement while speaking with reporters in Kano on Wednesday, where he assessed the strength of the opposition alliance ahead of the next general elections.
According to him, the political combination involving Obi and Kwankwaso does not have enough support across Nigeria’s different regions to compete successfully against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC. He described the expected showdown as one that would not pose a serious challenge to the ruling party, insisting that the APC maintains a stronger national network and broader acceptance among voters.
The APC figure also raised questions about Kwankwaso’s role in the alliance, suggesting that the former Kano governor may have strategic interests beyond his public position as Obi’s deputy. He claimed that Kwankwaso could be pursuing a separate political agenda while appearing as part of the opposition ticket.
Illiyasu stated that developments in the months leading to the election would reveal the true nature of the political arrangement, adding that Nigerians would eventually understand his concerns.
Representing members of the Forum of Federal Government Appointees, he pledged continued support for President Tinubu’s bid to secure another term in office. He maintained that the current administration had recorded notable achievements and deserved the backing of Nigerians.
He encouraged the president to remain assured of strong support from northern communities, particularly in Kano and other parts of the region, which he claimed were favourably disposed toward the APC government.
The party stalwart highlighted several federal government programmes and projects across northern Nigeria, noting that they were designed to improve infrastructure, strengthen the economy and enhance social welfare.
He mentioned interventions in the health sector, environmental projects, agricultural development schemes and major energy initiatives as examples of the administration’s efforts to improve citizens’ lives.
Illiyasu specifically referred to the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline project, describing it as a major investment expected to increase gas availability, support electricity generation and encourage industrial activities across northern states.
He noted that while some government projects were still progressing, several others had already been completed and were contributing positively to communities.
The APC spokesperson insisted that the government’s development efforts demonstrated its commitment to national growth and urged citizens to evaluate the administration based on its achievements.
He expressed confidence that the party would maintain its strong political position and receive sufficient support from voters across the country in the forthcoming presidential contest.
