Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has declared the party the only credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking in Bayelsa State, the former Kano State governor dismissed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a viable opposition platform, asserting that the political landscape has effectively narrowed to a binary choice between the APC and the NDC.
Kwankwaso made the remarks at a reception hosted by NDC national leader Senator Seriake Dickson in Toru-Orua, Sagbama Local Government Area. He described the NDC as a "God-given platform" for Nigerians seeking a change in leadership, arguing that the party is uniquely positioned to address the country’s worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and challenges in agriculture. During the event, Kwankwaso also presented party flags and certificates of return to NDC candidates in Bayelsa State.
“Now we have, if you like, two parties, the APC, as he said today, and of course this God-given party, the NDC. Now Nigerians are given the choice,” Kwankwaso declared.
The former governor emphasized that the NDC is committed to prioritizing the welfare of ordinary citizens, including young people, farmers, and fishermen struggling with rising living costs. He highlighted education as a central pillar of the party’s agenda, insisting that no child should be denied schooling due to poverty. Kwankwaso cited previous initiatives in Kano State and under former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi as evidence of the party’s commitment to ensuring educational access regardless of family circumstances.
Addressing economic policy, Kwankwaso expressed concern over the implementation of the Federal Government’s recent tax reforms. He warned that while the legislation has been signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, its most substantial impact on vulnerable populations and productive sectors would emerge after the 2027 elections. The NDC candidate argued that government policies must support, rather than exacerbate, the economic difficulties faced by farmers and other productive workers.
Kwankwaso also disclosed ongoing discussions with Senator Dickson regarding the dredging of waterways to improve transportation and connectivity in the Niger Delta. The proposed initiative aims to create navigable routes extending from the Delta towards northern Nigeria, opening new opportunities for trade and economic activity. Additionally, he urged voters to remain vigilant during the electoral process, warning against the assumption that security agencies or party officials alone would protect their votes.
“Don’t start looking for policemen or anybody wearing a uniform to come and protect your votes. It is our collective responsibility,” he said. In his opening remarks, Senator Dickson acknowledged the hardships faced by NDC supporters, including unemployment and intimidation, but urged party members to maintain peace and avoid hostility toward political opponents who have joined other parties.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
