NNPP leader Rabiu Kwankwaso has declared he will only join a political party offering him the presidential or vice-presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 elections, amid reports of exploratory talks with the ADC alongside Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi. The condition underscores his demand for top billing in any opposition coalition, rejecting subordinate roles as Kano Governor Yusuf's defection to APC threatens NNPP's viability.
Kwankwaso seeks platforms guaranteeing electoral heft via power-sharing, dismissing lesser positions despite NNPP's collapse risks from Yusuf's January 12 APC switch backed by Ganduje. ADC's recent Obi influx positions it as merger hub, echoing Dele Momodu's unity pleas against Tinubu's dominance now at 28 governorships post-Plateau gain.
Yusuf's exit opposed by Kwankwaso who demands lawmakers follow hands APC Kano control after 2023 "rescue," prompting Kwankwasiyya purges and realignment pressures. Exploratory ADC discussions prioritize structure merges avoiding 2023 vote splits, with Kwankwaso eyeing Northern balance in Atiku-Obi pairings.
The stance counters APC consolidation via Rivers feuds and Wike's monarch advisories, testing Tinubu's reforms amid stock surges and insecurity crackdowns from Delta raids to Oyo arrests. Kwankwaso's ticket condition signals high-stakes bargaining, potentially reshaping opposition against incumbent strength.