Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, met with Sultan of Sokoto Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III on September 28, 2026, during a visit ahead of their town-hall engagements in Sokoto State. The meeting, described by Obi as a “courtesy visit,” focused on addressing national challenges, including security, poverty, and employment. Obi highlighted the need to leverage Nigeria’s ethnic diversity as a strength, while the Sultan reiterated the responsibility of leaders to prioritize public welfare. The visit followed Obi’s recent condolences to the Sultan over the death of the Sardauna of Sokoto, a traditional title holder.
The Sultan, who has known Obi for 46 years, emphasized that leadership demands accountability and urged the duo to focus on security, economic development, and national cohesion. He also stressed the importance of unity amid Nigeria’s political and social divisions. Obi, who previously served as Anambra State governor, reiterated his commitment to tackling poverty and creating jobs, aligning with the Sultan’s priorities. The meeting occurred as Obi and Kwankwaso prepare for broader campaign activities ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with the NDC positioning itself as a key contender in the race.
Obi and Kwankwaso, who ran separately in the 2023 election—Obi under the Labour Party and Kwankwaso under the New Nigeria Peoples Party—now campaign together under the NDC banner. In the 2023 contest, Obi finished third behind President Bola Tinubu and Atiku Abubakar. The political landscape has since shifted, with Atiku now leading the African Democratic Congress and Tinubu seeking re-election. The Independent National Electoral Commission has set the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027, with 18 candidates officially registered. The Sultan’s endorsement and dialogue with the NDC pair underscore the party’s efforts to broaden its appeal across Nigeria’s diverse regions.
The visit reflects broader tensions in Nigeria’s political sphere, where security crises and economic instability remain pressing concerns. Obi’s emphasis on unity and the Sultan’s call for leadership accountability align with public demands for systemic reform. As the 2027 election approaches, the NDC’s strategy to merge regional support with national policy proposals will be critical. The Sultan’s involvement highlights the enduring influence of traditional leaders in shaping political narratives, particularly in northern Nigeria, where the Caliphate system holds significant cultural and political weight.