All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Kano State, Ilyasu Musa Kwankwaso has urged northern leaders and politicians to rally behind President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
He emphasized the strategic benefit of securing the presidency for the North in 2031.
Kwankwaso argued that backing Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima would ensure a smoother transition of power back to the North after the president’s second term.
Speaking to reporters in Kano on Sunday, Kwankwaso expressed concerns over divisive campaigns and criticisms directed at President Tinubu by certain factions within the North, labeling these efforts as detrimental to the region’s long-term interests.
“Patriotic northern politicians must not heed the voices calling for alternative candidates from the South,” Kwankwaso stated. “If another candidate wins in 2027, the North may face an extended eight-year wait for power to return.”
Kwankwaso dismissed claims that the country’s current security challenges should dissuade support for Tinubu.
He acknowledged the president’s ongoing efforts to address armed banditry and instability, particularly in the North.
Highlighting Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle’s recent progress in countering banditry in the North and Northwest, Kwankwaso called for unity, urging northern politicians to support Tinubu’s administration.
Addressing rumors about former Kano governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso potentially running as a vice-presidential candidate with a Southern politician, he cautioned against endorsing such moves, arguing that it would delay power returning to the North until 2035.
He concluded by urging northerners to support Tinubu, stating, “The best assistance we can give President Tinubu is to rally around him with our prayers and efforts to achieve peace in the country.”
