Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso has denied reports that he has declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election.
In a statement on Saturday night, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) said he has not endorsed any aspirant as running mate and has not taken any decision on his political future.
Kwankwaso said recent media reports suggesting he was planning to run on a joint ticket with Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State, were false.
He also dismissed claims that both politicians were finalising plans to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
"We have noted recent media reports and discussions suggesting a possible realignment within the ADC due to the current challenges facing the party.
"In light of the misleading narratives in the public domain, I wish to state categorically that no final decision has been taken regarding my political future or that of my political associates," the statement partly read.
He clarified that the ADC has not zoned its presidential ticket or selected a candidate for 2027.
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"The ADC is yet to take any decision on a candidate. I have therefore neither declared any intention to run for president nor endorsed any aspirant. All speculations to the contrary are premature and unfounded," he said.
Kwankwaso further referenced a Supreme Court ruling on Thursday that set aside a Court of Appeal order in the ADC crisis.
The apex court directed the faction led by David Mark to return to the Federal High Court for further hearing.
He said the legal challenges have left the party in a difficult position.
"We left the NNPP due to externally influenced legal challenges that made our stay difficult. The ADC has now also been drawn into similar difficulties," Kwankwaso said.
According to him, consultations are ongoing with leaders of the NDC, People's Redemption Party (PRP) and other political groups to determine the next steps, adding that any decision will be communicated officially.
Kwankwaso explained that his absence from recent ADC meetings was due to personal commitments already communicated to the party, and not because of a planned defection.
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