If you look closely, you will see that Peter Obi has effectively been gagged within his new political home. Who is in charge? Jobi or Kwankwaso? Beyond the vocal “Mama Pee,” the frontline “Obidient” loyalists who once formed his core circle are noticeably absent from this new alignment. See Obi in the midst of Kwankwaso loyalists.
The reality is that the leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) views the 2027 presidential election as a lost cause. They are simply using Obi’s remaining popularity as a temporary bridge to build a national footprint, with their true sights locked firmly on 2031.
The Kwankwaso Factor & Red Flags
Meanwhile, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has made it clear that he will not sacrifice his personal political brand for the proposed “Obi-Kwankwaso” (OK) ticket. Even though he is not currently heading the ticket, his followers stubbornly refuse to take off their signature Kwankwasiyya red caps. This is a subtle but clear show of disrespect to Obi’s leadership. The warning signs are everywhere: if Obi somehow defies the odds and wins, Kwankwaso will never answer to him. To believe otherwise is to be completely naive about Nigerian power politics. Imagine not wearing Tinubu signature cap and Shettima showcasing his own brand. That will never happen.
Dickson’s Private Headquarters
Behind the scenes, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson holds all the keys to the kingdom. He has no intention of sharing genuine control of the NDC structure with outsiders. The party’s real decisions aren’t made at the national secretariat; they are finalized in Dickson’s private quarters, which serve as the actual command center.
Ultimately, the NDC is treating 2027 as a mere dress rehearsal to expand its national spread. Both Seriake Dickson and Kwankwaso are well aware of this long-term strategy, and they are quietly capitalising on Obi’s political vulnerability and the enthusiasm of his remaining followers to build the foundation for their own future ambitions.
Nnaemeka Ikerionwu
Minister | Conference Speaker | Entrepreneur |Conversation Starter
Modiji Mbaka
