Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, the first son of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has been selected as the running mate to the Kano State governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
The announcement was made on Monday as the party finalises its ticket for the 2027 general elections.
Strategic Move for Kano NDC Ticket
The Kano NDC governorship candidate, Aminu Gwarzo, picked Mustapha Kwankwaso as his deputy. Party insiders say the choice is aimed at strengthening the ticket and consolidating support within the Kwankwasiyya movement, which remains a major political force in Kano.
Mustapha Kwankwaso is expected to bring fresh energy to the campaign and help bridge generational gaps within the party’s support base. His selection is also seen as a way to deepen family and political loyalty within the Kwankwaso political dynasty.
Background to the Decision
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is currently the vice presidential candidate of the NDC, running alongside Peter Obi. His son’s emergence as deputy governorship candidate in Kano is being viewed as part of broader efforts to strengthen the party’s structure across the North-West, particularly in Kano, where the Kwankwasiyya movement commands significant grassroots support.
The NDC has been working to position itself as a viable opposition platform ahead of 2027. The choice of Mustapha Kwankwaso is expected to energise supporters who have remained loyal to the Kwankwaso brand over the years.
Reactions from Stakeholders
Reactions have started trickling in from political observers and party supporters. Many see the move as a calculated step to consolidate the party’s position in Kano, one of Nigeria’s most politically significant states.
Some analysts believe the father-and-son combination on the national and state tickets could help the NDC present a more united front in the North-West. Others, however, are watching to see how the move will play out, especially with other opposition parties also jostling for relevance in the state.
The NDC leadership in Kano is expected to officially unveil the full ticket in the coming days as the party intensifies preparations for the 2027 elections.
