Kwankwasiyya fires back at Atiku, says only Obi, Kwankwaso command ‘organic’ support
The Kwankwasiyya movement has rejected recent claims by Atiku Abubakar suggesting a decline in Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s political influence in Kano, insisting that only Kwankwaso and Peter Obi enjoy genuine, grassroots-driven nationwide support.
The rebuttal comes amid intensifying jockeying for the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition, reports Daily Trust.
Speaking on Trust TV, Kwankwasiyya spokesperson Habib Mailemo argued that the followership of Obi and Kwankwaso is built on personal conviction rather than political inducement or reliance on entrenched party structures.
“It is only Peter Obi and my principal… that have organic followers that are not induced by anything,” he said, adding that their support base is rooted in public belief in their competence and track records.
Mailemo stressed that Kwankwaso’s involvement in coalition talks is driven by a broader national interest rather than personal ambition.
“His sole intention is to contribute to rescuing Nigeria,” he added.
While acknowledging Atiku’s long-standing presence in Nigeria’s political landscape, Mailemo argued that the former vice president’s electoral strength has largely depended on party machinery—particularly during his time with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He contrasted this with what he described as the independent rise of Obi and Kwankwaso, noting that both politicians built momentum even when they were not initially considered frontrunners.
“They became synonymous with the parties they joined, largely because of their personal popularity,” he said.
Mailemo further argued that a fair assessment of Atiku’s personal appeal would require him to contest under a less-established platform and build it into a viable force.
Citing precedent, he referenced the emergence of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, noting that strong party backing—not just personal popularity—can determine electoral success.
“Anyone with such backing is likely to secure substantial votes,” he said.
On concerns that such exchanges could deepen divisions within the opposition, Mailemo maintained that open internal evaluation is necessary for a credible coalition.
“They must understand themselves and properly analyse their strengths,” he said, urging unity among key figures.
Atiku’s earlier remarks, which sparked the response, pointed to what he described as shifting political dynamics in Kano—Kwankwaso’s traditional stronghold.
“You can see how Kano is now split between himself and his former governor,” Atiku said.
Despite the tensions, Atiku has continued to position himself as a unifying figure within the coalition, pledging to support any consensus candidate that emerges through a democratic process—even if it is Obi.
“If he is a contender, why not? It is democracy,” he said.
