Kwankwaso: No Campaign Council Can Override The Will Of Nigerians

Former Kano State Governor and prominent political leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has criticised the recently constituted All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, describing its composition as a reflection of the continuity Nigerians must reject in the 2027 general election.

Kwankwaso, in a statement reacting to the composition of the council, said the inclusion of several political actors who have supported, defended or participated in the present administration raises fundamental questions about the direction the APC intends to offer Nigerians in 2027.

According to him, the election should be viewed as a choice between the continuation of the current system and a new direction capable of addressing the hardship confronting millions of Nigerians.

He said the country is currently facing widespread economic and social challenges, including rising food prices, unemployment, insecurity, declining opportunities for young people and growing pressure on essential public services.

“The truth is, I see the 2027 election as a struggle between the oppressed Nigerian masses and those who have benefited from, defended and sustained the system responsible for their hardship,” Kwankwaso said.

He noted that families across the country are struggling with the rising cost of food and basic necessities, while farmers and businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to survive.

Kwankwaso also expressed concern over the continued insecurity affecting communities, saying millions of Nigerians remain exposed to violence, displacement and the destruction of their livelihoods.

He therefore urged Nigerians to use the 2027 election to demand accountable and people-centred governance, stressing that the strength of any political campaign ultimately depends on the will of the electorate.

“If Osun people can do it, so can all other parts of the country,” he stated.

The former governor also appealed directly to Senator Abdul’aziz Yari, who has accepted to serve as Director-General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, to reconsider his decision.

Kwankwaso said Yari, having served as governor of Zamfara State and being a prominent leader from the North-West, should understand the devastating impact of insecurity, poverty, unemployment and displacement on the people of the region.

He questioned whether Yari, in good conscience, could lead a campaign seeking the continuation of an administration under which many Nigerians, including people he once governed, remain confronted by these challenges.

Kwankwaso further raised concerns over the reported involvement of senior officials of critical public institutions in the APC campaign’s fundraising and finance structures.

He specifically cited the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr Zacch Adedeji, and the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Dr Tanimu Yakubu Kurfi.

According to him, the leadership of institutions responsible for managing public revenue and national finances requires neutrality, integrity and public confidence.

He questioned whether senior officials entrusted with such sensitive responsibilities should simultaneously occupy senior partisan campaign positions.

“The government and the APC should explain how such arrangements are consistent with institutional neutrality and public trust,” he said.

Kwankwaso maintained that the 2027 election would provide Nigerians with an opportunity to determine whether the country should continue along its current path or embrace a new political direction.

He concluded by stressing that regardless of the size or composition of any political campaign structure, the ultimate power remains with the electorate.
“Ultimately, no campaign council is more powerful than the Nigerian people,” Kwankwaso declared.