Mark, Obi, others receive Kwankwaso into ADC
The much anticipated move by former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa to join the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) came yesterday as the former governor was publicly received by leaders of the party in Kano. APC leaders that were in Kano to welcome Kwankwaso into the party include former Senate President and ADC National Chairman, […]
The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) David Mark (2nd left) presenting the ADC membership card to the former Kano State governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Musa Kwankwaso (2nd right), in Kano State yesterday
The much anticipated move by former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa to join the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) came yesterday as the former governor was publicly received by leaders of the party in Kano.
APC leaders that were in Kano to welcome Kwankwaso into the party include former Senate President and ADC National Chairman, David Mark; former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi; and ADC National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola.
Others are former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal; former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi; Senator Dino Melaye; former APC National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun; and former Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha.
Kwankwaso had on Sunday, resigned his membership of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) on which platform he contested the presidential election in 2023, giving the indication that he was moving to the opposition ADC.
The high-powered delegation was received at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport by the immediate past Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, before proceeding to Kwankwaso’s Miller Road residence for the event.
Speaking at the event, Senator Mark described Kwankwaso’s defection as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that it signals a deliberate effort to unite opposition forces.
“Today marks a defining moment in the history of our democracy and a special day in our collective effort to build a better and more united Nigeria,” he said.
He added that the ADC would serve as a rallying platform for a broad coalition committed to inclusion, accountability and people-oriented governance, while alleging that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) poses a threat to multiparty democracy.
Mark called on Nigerians, civil society groups and other political actors to join the party in building a united front capable of offering credible alternatives.
In his remarks, Kwankwaso said his decision to join the ADC was a collective one taken in consultation with his supporters and members of the Kwankwasiyya movement.
He described the occasion as historic and urged his supporters nationwide to immediately register with the party.
“I am very happy Today that I have collected my membership card for the ADC. I urge all our supporters to go back and register with the party,” he said.
Kwankwaso also emphasised the need for full political participation, calling on Nigerians to register with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
“Registering with the party is not enough. You must also register with INEC to ensure you can vote for change in the next general elections,” he added. The development marks a significant political realignment ahead of future elections, particularly in Kano State, where Kwankwaso commands a strong grassroots following.