Former presidential candidate and leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has met with former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, amid growing speculation over political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Aregbesola, who currently serves as national secretary of the African Democratic Congress, is part of a coalition platform being considered by opposition figures. Kwankwaso confirmed the meeting in a post on his social media page on Friday, March 27.
The meeting comes at a time of uncertainty within the New Nigeria Peoples Party, following recent developments in Kano politics. Reports suggest Kwankwaso has been weighing his political options after a fallout with key allies, including the Kano State governor, who defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress.
In parallel, leaders of the ADC in Kano State, including state chairman Musa Shuaibu Ungoggo and national youth leader Balarabe Rufai, paid a courtesy visit to Kwankwaso at his Abuja residence on the same day, further fuelling speculation about a possible alliance.
Analysts say the former Kano governor appears to be exploring platforms that could strengthen his influence and replicate his performance in the 2023 elections, particularly in northern Nigeria.
The development has triggered mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media. Some commentators cautioned against joining a party they believe lacks a clear ideological foundation, while others welcomed the possibility of a broader opposition alliance.
Supporters of the move argue that collaboration among opposition leaders could reshape the political landscape ahead of 2027, with some describing the meeting as a potential step toward forming a “third force” capable of challenging the ruling party.
Others, however, dismissed the speculation, suggesting the meeting could simply be a routine political engagement.
As political manoeuvring intensifies, attention is likely to remain on emerging alliances and strategies that could influence the next electoral cycle.
