Be ‘battle ready’ for 2027, Kwankwaso urges supporters

Former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has called on his supporters to intensify political mobilisation and be “battle ready” ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking to members of the Kwankwasiyya movement in Hausa, the former Kano State governor emphasised the importance of preparedness to safeguard votes during the elections.

He urged his loyalists to remain at polling units until votes are fully counted, stressing vigilance throughout the electoral process.

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Kwankwaso also encouraged supporters to register with his new political platform, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and obtain their voter cards.

He made the remarks on Monday at his Miller Road residence while receiving his ADC membership card, shortly after defecting from the NNPP.

“You must make sure you register… and also complete your voter registration with INEC. You must prepare for the worst-case scenario to defend your votes,” he said, urging full participation in both party membership registration and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) voter registration process.

The former senator representing Kano Central further called for aggressive mobilisation to strengthen the ADC’s structure, particularly in Kano State, as part of efforts to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Kwankwaso’s defection comes despite previous reservations about the ADC, citing political differences with some party figures, including Nasir El-Rufai, Atiku Abubakar, and Aminu Tambuwal.

However, he was seen at the event interacting with key party leaders.

Earlier, ADC National Chairman David Mark described Kwankwaso’s entry into the party as a significant development for Nigeria’s democratic space.

Mark said the move reflects growing efforts among opposition leaders to build a united front, adding that it is a response to what he described as increasing pressure on Nigeria’s multiparty system.

“There is no doubt that the ruling party represents a serious threat to multiparty democracy,” Mark said, urging Nigerians to support efforts aimed at preserving democratic participation.