S’EAST, NORTH MUST REBUILD HISTORIC ALLIANCE, EMBRACE FORGIVENESS — KWANKWASO
Read Time:1 Minute, 41 Second
By; Sunmola Ganiyat
The 2027 vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has called for renewed political cooperation between Northern Nigeria and the South-East, saying both regions share a longstanding alliance that should be strengthened.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Igbo, Kwankwaso said Nigerians must embrace forgiveness, reconciliation and national unity, stressing that the South-East has remained a trusted ally of the North over the years.
“We have to forgive ourselves. We have to work together as a family. The South-East has been our ally and our friend over the years,” he said.
The former Kano State governor recalled the political partnership between the Northern People’s Congress (NPC) and the National Council of Nigerian Citizens (NCNC) during the First Republic, led by prominent figures including Nnamdi Azikiwe.
He also referenced the Second Republic, noting that President Shehu Shagari and leaders of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) worked closely with politicians from the South-East.
According to him, leaders of the post-Civil War era demonstrated foresight by promoting inclusion and unity, leading to the emergence of the late Alex Ekwueme as Nigeria’s Vice President.
Kwankwaso described Ekwueme as a friend of the North and recalled attending his burial in Oko, Anambra State.
He further cited the return of the late Biafran leader, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, from exile as another example of reconciliation, noting that Northern political leaders supported his reintegration into national politics.
Kwankwaso said the spirit of forgiveness remains essential for peaceful coexistence and national progress.
He added that strengthening ties with the South-East should not be viewed as opposition to other regions, stressing that all parts of the country must work together.
“You can’t play politics in this country alone—whether based on religion or region. At this level, everyone must work together,” he said.
His comments come as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general election, with Kwankwaso running alongside former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi on the NDC ticket.
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