At the National Convention of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) held in Abuja, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso delivered a stirring speech. The convention marked a pivotal moment as the party officially zoned its presidential ticket to the southern region for the 2027 elections.
Kwankwaso, who recently joined the NDC from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s current state. He lamented the deteriorating quality of life, rampant insecurity, and the collapse of essential services such as education and infrastructure. He criticized poor leadership for leaving the nation unprepared to navigate global geopolitical shifts.
Drawing on historical parallels, Kwankwaso recalled alliances that shaped Nigeria’s progress. He cited the 1954 partnership between Aminu Kano’s Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) and Nnamdi Azikiwe’s National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), which fostered national unity. He also referenced the 1960 coalition between the NCNC and the Northern People’s Congress (NPC) that secured independence, and the Second Republic alliance under Shehu Shagari and Alex Ekwueme that restored civilian rule.
Expressing his unwavering support for the party’s zoning decision, Kwankwaso emphasized that this move would promote national healing and fairness. He pledged to uphold the party’s commitment to ethnic and religious inclusivity, ensuring leadership devoid of favoritism.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to register with INEC and join the NDC, calling it a noble cause to restore the country’s dignity. ‘Please register today,’ he appealed, ending with cheers for the NDC and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.