Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday, in a move hailed as a major boost for opposition politics in Northern Nigeria.
The ceremony took place at the residence of ADC National Chairman, Sen. David Mark, who personally welcomed Kwankwaso along with his supporters.
Speaking during the event, Mark described Kwankwaso’s defection as more than a mere political realignment, framing it as a response to growing calls from Nigerians for a cohesive and credible opposition capable of safeguarding democratic values.
“The ADC now stands as a platform for a broad-based national movement built on inclusion, integrity, competence, and progress,” Mark said. “Our coalition seeks to offer Nigerians credible alternatives and restore confidence in democratic governance.”
Mark also raised concerns about what he termed a gradual erosion of opposition space in the country, warning that actions limiting political participation threaten the foundations of democracy.
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“The future of Nigeria cannot be built on domination but on participation. Leadership must be earned through trust, not sustained by control,” he stressed.
Highlighting Kwankwaso’s influence, the former Senate President noted the former governor commands a large grassroots following in Northern Nigeria through the Kwankwasiyya movement.
He encouraged Nigerians from all ethnic, religious, and regional backgrounds to join the movement, and called on other political parties, civil society groups, and youth organizations to collaborate in strengthening democracy.
Mark expressed optimism that the Kwankwaso-ADC alliance could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s democratic trajectory, appealing to citizens to embrace unity, participation, and hope in shaping the nation’s future.
For his part, Kwankwaso urged ADC supporters to register massively as party members with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and to promote the party’s ideals. He emphasized the importance of electing credible leaders committed to good governance.
The former governor had left the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) over the weekend. While there were indications that he might join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) after being courted by party leadership, Kwankwaso made a surprising choice to align with the ADC instead, signaling a strategic strengthening of opposition forces.
Analysts say Kwankwaso’s move could reshape political dynamics in Kano and northern Nigeria, consolidating opposition efforts ahead of upcoming elections and increasing the prospects for a more competitive political landscape.