Former Kano State Governor and vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has expressed confidence that he and the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, possess the right strategy to tackle Nigeria’s persistent insecurity if elected into office in the 2027 general election.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Kwankwaso said insecurity remains one of Nigeria’s greatest challenges but insisted that the country’s security problems can be addressed through a combination of intelligence-led policing, community cooperation, dialogue where appropriate and decisive military action when necessary.
According to him, communities affected by terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes often know the identities and locations of those responsible for attacks. However, many residents have become reluctant to provide information to security agencies because they fear reprisals or believe previous intelligence they supplied was not properly handled.
Kwankwaso said an Obi-led administration would prioritise rebuilding public confidence in the nation's security architecture so that citizens would feel safe sharing intelligence with law enforcement agencies. He argued that restoring trust between communities and security institutions would significantly improve intelligence gathering and strengthen efforts to combat criminal networks operating across the country.
The former governor also stated that his administration would not rule out dialogue with terrorists and other armed groups where such engagement could help end violence and save lives. He explained that talking to criminal elements does not imply surrendering to them but rather exploring every lawful avenue to discourage violence, secure the release of victims and restore peace in affected communities. At the same time, he stressed that military operations and law enforcement would continue wherever force becomes necessary to protect lives and national security.
Kwankwaso maintained that the proposed Obi-Kwankwaso ticket is focused on solving Nigeria’s real problems rather than engaging in divisive politics. He said the alliance intends to address insecurity alongside economic hardship, unemployment and poor governance through policies centred on competence, accountability and inclusive leadership.
The comments come as political discussions ahead of the 2027 general election continue to gather momentum, with several opposition figures exploring alliances capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). While no election campaign has officially commenced, statements by key political actors have intensified debates over security, governance and the direction of the country.
Security remains one of the most pressing concerns for Nigerians, with communities across different parts of the country continuing to grapple with terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence. Analysts say whichever political party emerges victorious in the next presidential election will face enormous expectations to restore peace, strengthen security institutions and rebuild public confidence in government.