The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has said that former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, will not play second fiddle if their joint ticket wins the 2027 presidential election, promising a government of equal partners rather than a ceremonial vice presidency.
Obi made the pledge at the NDC national convention in Abuja, where he formally unveiled Kwankwaso as his running mate.
The former Anambra State governor said his administration would be anchored on consultation, inclusiveness and shared responsibility, a deliberate departure from what he described as the long-standing perception of the vice president as a political afterthought.
“The government we intend to form will no longer be a government where anybody will say that the vice president is a spare tyre.
“The vice president will be a partner because we want to build a nation where there are two equal people who work for the greatness of the country.
“Decisions will be taken as partners. Everybody will be consulted. That is what we require, and that is how government functions.”
Obi went on to accept his nomination as the party’s presidential candidate before extending a formal invitation to Kwankwaso to join the ticket.
“It is on this note that I graciously accept the affirmation as the candidate of this great party. And in the same spirit, I am inviting Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to join me as the vice-presidential candidate,” he said.
Explaining his choice of running mate, Obi said Kwankwaso’s priorities align with his own vision for the country, particularly on education, security and equal opportunity.
“He believes in education and security. And we will work together to ensure it happens.”
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