Dare Babalola
Political commentator Mike Arnold has criticised suggestions of a possible joint ticket between Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 elections, saying he would “actively oppose” such an alliance.
In a post on X on Tuesday, Arnold said he was open-minded about Obi’s leadership potential but warned that his support would end if the former Anambra governor chooses Kwankwaso as a running mate.
“I like Peter Obi. I am not sold on him yet, but he has potential and I have an open mind,” he wrote.
“What will close my mind instantly, without any wiggle room, is an Obi-Kwankwaso ticket.”
Arnold accused Kwankwaso of long-standing loyalty to the Sultanate establishment and criticised his political career, noting his movement across several political parties over the years.
The commentator also referenced Kwankwaso’s tenure as Minister of Defence and governor of Kano State, raising allegations relating to security issues, implementation of Sharia law, pension fund controversies and alleged interference in corruption investigations.
Arnold further criticised the establishment of the Hisbah Board in Kano under Kwankwaso’s administration, alleging that it enabled religious policing in the state.
He argued that Nigeria “does not need more of the same,” insisting that Obi should choose a running mate “who is not a puppet of the Sultan.”
Kwankwaso, a former presidential candidate of the NNPP, has yet to respond to the claims made in the post.
