Kwankwaso Rebuts Ganduje’s “Dead on Arrival” Remark
Former All Progressives Congress (APC) national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje recently claimed that the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential ticket for 2027 is “dead on arrival,” arguing that candidates Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar lack the grassroots structure and regional appeal needed to penetrate the North.
Ganduje also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to tighten party‑registration criteria, insisting that only parties with functional structures, clear ideologies, and nationwide reach should be recognised.
In a televised interview on News Central TV, NDC vice‑presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso fired back, pointing out Ganduje’s own electoral defeat.
Kwankwaso stated:
“Ganduje has no reason to make that statement. We supported him in 2015. In 2023 we defeated him and if he could not do anything when he was governor, what can he do now?”
The remark underscores Kwankwaso’s view that Ganduje’s current political influence is limited, especially after his loss in the 2023 elections.
While Ganduje calls for stricter INEC guidelines, the NDC leadership maintains that its growing coalition and grassroots mobilisation efforts position it strongly for the 2027 contest.
About the Author
