The vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has appealed for forgiveness and reconciliation with the South-East, describing the region as a long-time ally of the North and calling for the restoration of their historic political partnership ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking during an interview with reporters on Wednesday, Kwankwaso urged Nigerians to embrace forgiveness, reconciliation and national unity, saying the country’s progress depends on stronger collaboration across regional, ethnic and religious divides.
“We have to forgive ourselves. We have to work together as a family. The South-East has been our ally and our friends over the years,” he said.
Kwankwaso cited historical political alliances between the Northern People’s Congress (NPC) and the National Council of Nigerian Citizens (NCNC), led by the late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe during the First Republic, as evidence of the enduring relationship between the North and the South-East.
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He also recalled the cooperation between leaders from both regions during the Second Republic and praised the late former Vice President, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, describing him as a trusted friend of the North.
The former Kano State governor further noted that northern political leaders played a significant role in facilitating the return of the late Biafran leader, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, from exile after the Nigerian Civil War, describing the move as a demonstration of reconciliation and national healing.
According to him, Nigeria’s post-war democratic journey was founded on unity rather than division, adding that rebuilding political ties with the South-East should not be interpreted as opposition to any other region.
Kwankwaso stressed that sustainable national development can only be achieved through inclusive politics that promotes cooperation among all parts of the country.
His remarks come as political parties step up consultations and alliance-building ahead of the 2027 general election, in which he is the vice-presidential running mate to former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi on the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
