By BONIFACE AKARAH

Igbo elders across the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, have thrown their weight behind the proposed Obi-Kwankwaso presidential ticket and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The elders made their position known during a solidarity visit to the Abuja residence of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

The delegation, under the auspices of the Igbo Elders Consultative Forum, was led by Dr. S. N. Okeke, Chairman of the Ohanaeze Council of Elders for the 19 States and the FCT, and was accompanied by former Enugu State Governor, Okwesilieze Nwodo.

According to Kwankwaso, the delegation expressed appreciation for the growing relationship between him and the 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate and former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, within the NDC political platform.

"The elders expressed strong appreciation for the growing and cordial partnership between myself and His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC)," Kwankwaso stated.

He further disclosed that the delegation pledged unwavering support for the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket and assured the movement of substantial electoral backing across the South-East and other parts of Southern Nigeria.

"They pledged their unwavering support for the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket and assured the movement of massive electoral backing across the South-East and the wider Southern region," he said.

Responding to the visit, Kwankwaso thanked the delegation for what he described as a timely engagement and an opportunity to exchange views on issues affecting the country.

Reflecting on Nigeria's political evolution and inter-regional cooperation, the former Kano State governor expressed satisfaction with his working relationship with Obi and reaffirmed his commitment to the party's objectives.

"I expressed delight at the excellent and productive relationship I continue to enjoy with His Excellency Peter Obi," Kwankwaso said.

He added: "I also reaffirmed my total commitment to the OK Movement and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), emphasising our resolute determination to deliver victory for the party in the upcoming elections."

The development comes amid growing political realignments and consultations among opposition figures and stakeholders ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.

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