The Nigerian political landscape continues to unravel as a two-term governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso and a two-term governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, met in Lagos State over the weekend.
The meeting has ignited significant speculation regarding potential political manoeuvres leading up to the 2027 general elections.
This interaction, described as a “marathon meeting” in Lagos State, has been interpreted by many as a strategic move towards forming a formidable opposition coalition aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Aregbesola, once a key figure in the APC, has had a tumultuous relationship with the party. He had fallen out with his political benefactor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
His political group, Omoluabi Progressives, has also officially left the APC, citing reasons such as ostracization, unfair suspension of leaders without due process, and denigration of the party structure.
Following this, the APC in Osun State expelled Aregbesola over alleged anti-party activities.
This fallout has placed Aregbesola in a position where aligning with other opposition figures could be strategic.
On the other hand, Kwankwaso, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has been actively engaging in discussions about opposition unity.
After coming a distant fourth in the 2023 presidential election, Kwankwaso has been holding strategic talks with political heavyweights across the country.
Also, the meeting between the duo aligns with a broader trend where opposition leaders are increasingly considering alliances to counter the APC’s dominance.
While the specifics of what was discussed at the meeting remain undisclosed, the implications are clear: there’s a strategic preparation underway by opposition forces.
Both Kwankwaso and Aregbesola have strong regional support.
Shedding light on the meeting, Osun NNPP Chairman Tosin Odeyemi said: “The meeting took place at the residence of Aregbesola in Lagos.
“The meeting reflected a shared commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and fostering national development.
“The third force in Nigeria’s political landscape presently is NNPP and the party leadership will leave no stone on turn in making Nigeria great again.”
