By Paul Joseph
A prominent northern cleric, Sheikh Barrister Ishaq Adam Kano, has rejected the reported political alignment between Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso under the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), warning Muslims in the North against supporting a non-Muslim presidential candidate in 2027.
In a viral video address, Sheikh Kano criticised ongoing efforts by some northern politicians seeking change, claiming they risk replacing current leadership with someone he described as “more dangerous.” Without naming names directly at first, he later referenced Obi’s 2023 political activities, alleging collaboration with Christian groups and framing it as a threat to Muslim political interests.
The cleric further accused Obi of harbouring hostility toward northern communities, citing his tenure as governor and suggesting such leadership would be unacceptable to the region.
He argued that backing Obi would amount to exchanging one problem for a worse alternative.
Framing the 2027 presidential race in religious terms, Sheikh Kano urged northern Muslims to prioritise religious identity in their choice of leadership.
He acknowledged dissatisfaction with current governance but insisted that faith-based solidarity should take precedence over political grievances.
Invoking what he described as the “lesser evil” principle, the cleric maintained that even a flawed Muslim leader would be preferable to a non-Muslim candidate perceived as antagonistic to northern interests.
He reiterated his stance that he would never support a non-Muslim for the presidency under any circumstance.
The remarks come shortly after Obi and Kwankwaso were reported to have aligned within the NDC, a development described by party figure Seriake Dickson as a “powerful convergence.” The cleric’s comments are expected to intensify debate around religion and political identity as parties begin early positioning ahead of the 2027 elections.
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