Former Kano State Governor and ex-presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move described as a significant political turning point. He made the announcement on Monday at his Miller Road residence in Kano, shortly after receiving his ADC membership card in the presence of party leaders and supporters. This defection marks a major shift in Nigeria’s opposition politics and is expected to reshape political dynamics, particularly in Kano State, where he commands a strong grassroots following through his Kwankwasiyya movement.

Kwankwaso urged all his supporters across the country to immediately register with the ADC and actively participate in the electoral process. He emphasized the importance of full political participation, stating, “Registering with the party is not enough. You must also register with INEC to ensure you can vote for change in the next general elections.” He expressed happiness about collecting his membership card and urged supporters to take this step with him.

His decision to join the ADC was a collective one, taken in consultation with his political associates and supporters. Kwankwaso had previously resigned from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) on Sunday, citing the need for "strategic realignment" in Nigeria's evolving political landscape. He described his exit as a "difficult but necessary decision," necessitated by the current trajectory of the nation’s politics which calls for identifying with a platform offering the best opportunity for effective change. This move comes amidst lingering political tensions in Kano State, including a reported rift between him and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, though he did not directly mention the internal crisis rocking the NNPP. He extended his appreciation to the NNPP leadership and the Kwankwasiyya Movement, assuring them that the struggle for a better Nigeria would continue.

The event in Kano saw the convergence of top ADC officials and other prominent political figures. The delegation, which had arrived in Kano earlier on Monday and was received at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport by Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, the immediate past Deputy Governor of Kano State, included ADC National Chairman and former Senate President, David Mark. Other dignitaries present were ADC National Secretary and former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola; former Anambra Governor and former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi; former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal; former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi; Senator Dino Melaye; former APC National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun; and former Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha. High-level political consultations, also involving figures like Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bayelsa West Senator Seriake Dickson, preceded Kwankwaso's defection, signaling a significant political realignment ahead of future elections.