Abdulmumin Jibrin, a key associate of Rabiu Kwankwaso, the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), held a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday.
The meeting occurred shortly after Kwankwaso, the former governor of Kano, claimed that the current federal government is favouring the south in terms of infrastructure and development.
Jibrin, a former member of the house of representatives, spoke to reporters following the meeting and said the conversation centred on national unity and development.
The visit has fueled growing speculation about a potential alliance between Kwankwaso and Tinubu in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
When asked if the meeting signaled a possible defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jibrin avoided a definitive response, saying “everything is open” and “a possibility”.
“I do not think it is time for that conversation,” he said.
“But everything is open, and everything is a possibility. The most important thing is the stability of the country and its unity. I believe that when we get to the bridge, we’ll cross it.”
Jibrin, who maintains strong relationships with both Tinubu and Kwankwaso, described the two as experienced politicians committed to Nigeria’s progress and unity.
“The president is a first-class politician. The national leader of the NNPP is also a thoroughbred politician,” he said.
“I believe both of them are committed to the peace, unity, and prosperity of Nigeria.”
Jibrin also responded to Kwankwaso’s recent criticisms, saying that differing opinions should not be exaggerated.
“Every leader does his best, and it depends on how you want to rate him. You can decide to see the cup half full or half empty,” he said.
“But I also believe everyone is entitled to their opinion, and it can always contribute to deepening the discourse.”
