APC, ADC coalition scramble for Kano’s mega votes

As political maneuvering intensifies ahead of the 2027 general elections, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the newly formed opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are both fiercely vying for Kano State’s 5.7 million votes, Sunday PUNCH has learnt.

Central to this contest is former Kano governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, who commands significant grassroots support through his influential Kwankwasiyya Movement.

Kwankwaso, who ran for president in 2023 on the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) platform, came fourth overall with nearly 1.5 million votes—almost one million of which came from Kano alone, surpassing the APC’s tally in the state at the time.

With the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party weakened by internal crises, the APC and President Bola Tinubu had appeared to have a clear path to re-election in 2027. However, the emergence of the ADC coalition, led by prominent figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rauf Aregbesola, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-Rivers governor Rotimi Amaechi, has significantly shifted the political landscape.

As alignments continue ahead of the polls, Kwankwaso has become a prized political figure whose decision could sway the race, especially in the North.

Party insiders from both the APC and ADC confirmed to Sunday PUNCH that they are actively courting Kwankwaso to secure Kano’s critical votes. Several NNPP insiders, speaking anonymously, also confirmed ongoing meetings between Kwankwaso and key figures from both camps to explore possible alliances.