Governor Alex Otti of Abia State recently hosted former New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, at his home in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, sparking widespread speculation of a potential alliance as Nigeria approaches the 2027 presidential election.
Kwankwaso’s visit was officially to offer condolences to Otti over the passing of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the first governor of old Abia State. However, political observers noted that his presence alongside members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Speaker of the House of Assembly Emmanuel Emeruwa, and aides of Governor Otti, hints at possible political intentions. The visit coincided with a reception hosted by Otti for 15 Abia indigenes who recently graduated from the Nigeria Police Academy in Kano, adding to the symbolic significance of the gathering.
With the 2027 presidential race on the horizon, analysts believe Kwankwaso and Otti might be strategizing an alliance, possibly under the influence of the Peter Obi-led faction of the Labour Party (LP), which aims to unify opposition voices. An observer noted, “Do you think the two men would meet like they did now without talking about the next presidential election? That is impossible.” The sentiment suggests that aligning forces could provide a stronger opposition front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The political climate in Abia State also suggests the beginnings of strategic maneuvering. The recent local government elections saw candidates loyal to Governor Otti winning nearly all chairmanship positions on the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) platform. These victories came amid an internal LP dispute, with factions led by Julius Abure and another backed by Obi and Otti, headed by Nenadi Usman, competing for the party’s leadership.
In a warm exchange, Governor Otti reflected on Kwankwaso’s support during his political journey, recalling how Kwankwaso had offered him a platform to run on in May 2022, even when they were in different parties. Otti expressed appreciation, saying, “Thank you for your guidance, for your patriotism, for everything that you have done for this country.”
Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, praised Otti’s achievements, sharing, “For the little time I have been here, I have had the opportunity of talking to a few people who confirmed to me that you are doing very well. We have seen your project everywhere.”
Political analysts argue that the opposition’s chances in 2027 rest on the ability of leaders like Atiku Abubakar of the PDP, Obi, and Kwankwaso to set aside their differences and support a unified candidate. Without such unity, they risk failing to present a viable alternative to the APC in the next presidential race.
Both leaders addressed the new graduates of the Nigeria Police Academy, urging them to serve with dedication and integrity. Otti encouraged the young officers to strive for excellence, emphasizing that hard work and ethics pave the way for success, saying, “Cutting corners does not take you too far.” Kwankwaso similarly advised the officers to “fear God” and to remain professional in their duties.
As political anticipation builds for the 2027 elections, Kwankwaso’s visit has stirred curiosity and speculation. Only time will tell if this meeting will pave the way for a significant political alliance.
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