The vice-presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and running mate to Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has criticised the newly constituted All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, describing its composition as a sign of continuity rather than change ahead of the 2027 general election.
Kwankwaso made the remarks on Sunday while reacting to the composition of the APC campaign council, which brings together several political figures who have supported, defended or served in the present administration.
He questioned what the ruling party was asking Nigerians to vote for in 2027, arguing that the election would present citizens with a choice between continuing with the current system and pursuing a new direction.
According to Kwankwaso, the 2027 election should be seen as a contest between Nigerians suffering from the country’s economic and security challenges and those who have benefited from or sustained the existing system.
He listed the rising cost of food and basic necessities, unemployment, insecurity, pressure on farmers and businesses, as well as challenges in education, healthcare and other essential public services among the major concerns confronting Nigerians.
“The ruling campaign structure presents another scenario between the oppressors and the oppressed,” Kwankwaso said.
He urged Nigerians to use the 2027 election to reject what he described as continued oppression and demand accountable and people-centred governance.
The NDC vice-presidential candidate also appealed to Senator Abdul’aziz Yari, the Director-General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, to reconsider accepting the responsibility.
Kwankwaso said Yari, as a former governor of Zamfara State and prominent North-West politician, had witnessed the devastating effects of insecurity, poverty, unemployment, displacement and the destruction of livelihoods in the region.
He questioned whether Yari could, “in his good conscience,” lead a campaign seeking the continuation of a government under which many Nigerians remain trapped in such challenges.
Kwankwaso further raised concerns over the reported inclusion of 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, in the APC campaign’s fundraising and finance structures.
He argued that the leadership of critical public institutions required neutrality, integrity and public confidence.
The former Kano State governor questioned whether senior officials responsible for managing public revenue and national finances could appropriately combine those responsibilities with senior partisan campaign roles.
He called on the Federal Government and the APC to explain how the arrangements were consistent with institutional neutrality and public trust.
Kwankwaso maintained that the power to determine Nigeria’s political direction ultimately belonged to the electorate.
“Ultimately, no campaign council is more powerful than the Nigerian people,” he said.
The statement comes as political parties intensify preparations and mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general election.