Peter Obi Explains Why He Chose Kwankwaso As Running Mate

Peter Obi Explains Why He Chose Kwankwaso As Running Mate
Obi dismisses speculation of disagreements with his running mate.
Former Anambra governor also visited a supermarket and interacted with shoppers.

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has explained why he selected former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election.

According to Obi, Kwankwaso shares his vision of tackling poverty through education and human capital development.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that speaking during an interview with The Sun, Obi said both leaders have a common philosophy centred on improving the economy and creating opportunities that would lift Nigerians out of poverty.

“Kwankwaso has the philosophy of pulling people out of poverty,” Obi said.

He stressed that education would remain a central pillar of his administration if elected, describing it as the most effective tool for transforming society.

“I have the same philosophy. Kwankwaso believes in education. You cannot change society without education.

“If you look at my 𝕏, formerly Twitter, I made it clear that I will emphasise on education. Education is going to change society.

“Nigeria must be seen to form its innermost human capital, which we need to develop. Kwankwaso believes in this. I do. We have synergy.”

Obi also dismissed reports suggesting a rift between himself and the former Kano governor, insisting they remain united and are working together ahead of the January 2027 presidential election.

Meanwhile, former Peter Obi campaign photographer, Esther Umoh, shared photographs of the former Anambra State governor shopping at a supermarket on Saturday.

The visit comes months after Obi attracted public attention when he was seen buying groundnuts at Utako Market in Abuja in a video that went viral on social media.

Posting on her 𝕏 account, Umoh said Obi visited a branch of H Medix Supermarket to purchase a few personal items before interacting with members of staff and other customers.

“Peter Obi today stopped by a branch of H-Medix Supermarket to pick up a few personal items,” she wrote.

She said the visit reflected Obi’s connection with ordinary Nigerians.

“By experiencing the same markets, prices, and economic conditions as everyone else, he gains a firsthand understanding of the challenges families face daily,” she added.

According to Umoh, Obi also spent time engaging warmly with employees and fellow shoppers during the visit.

“He also took out time to interact warmly with members of staff and fellow shoppers. A reminder that leadership is ultimately about staying connected to the people you serve,” she stated.

Obi served as Governor of Anambra State between 2006 and 2014. He was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election and is now the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress for the 2027 election.