By Precious Mark
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 2027 vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), late Thursday night paid a courtesy visit to former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo at his temporary residence in Kano.
The meeting also had in attendance Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, the former Deputy Governor and NDC gubernatorial candidate for Kano State.
Kwankwaso served as the Minister of Defence under the Obasanjo administration from 2003 to 2007, and the encounter highlights ongoing ties between the political leaders as the NDC, with Peter Obi as its presidential flagbearer, prepares for the 2027 elections.
Confirming the visit in an official statement released on Friday, Kwankwaso described the former president as an esteemed leader, noting that the encounter provided a platform for constructive discussions during Obasanjo’s official stay in the ancient city.
“Last night, I paid a courtesy visit to our esteemed leader, His Excellency Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, at his accommodation in Kano,” Kwankwaso stated.
“I was accompanied by the former Deputy Governor and our gubernatorial candidate, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo.”
Separately, Kwankwaso also attended a major traditional event at the Emir’s Palace in Kano on Friday morning, which was similarly attended by the former President.
He disclosed that he joined Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and other dignitaries for a double-turbaning ceremony hosted by His Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Emir of Kano.
“I had the honour of attending the turbaning ceremony of Abubakar Balarabe Mahmoud, OON, SAN, as Garkuwan Kano earlier today,” Kwankwaso said.
“The colourful and dignified event, held at the Emir’s Palace in Kano, also witnessed the conferment of the traditional title of Sarkin Fulanin Ja’idnawan Kano on Air Marshal Muhammad Dikko Umar (Rtd) by His Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II,” he added.