Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso addressed tensions between Nigeria’s regions on Tuesday. The politician spoke during a BBC Igbo interview. He stressed that the South-East remained a historical ally of the North.
Kwankwaso highlighted past political cooperation. He pointed to the alliance between the Northern People’s Congress and the National Council of Nigerian Citizens under Nnamdi Azikiwe. Leaders from both regions worked together effectively in the early independence years, he noted.
The former governor declared that northern leaders decided to forgive past grievances. “We have to forgive ourselves. We have to work together as one family,” Kwankwaso stated. He added that the South-East served as a friend to the North over many years.
Kwankwaso made these remarks as discussions about the 2027 elections gained momentum. He positioned the outreach as a step toward national cohesion. Political observers noted that such calls often signal potential realignments ahead of polls.
The veteran politician reminded listeners of longstanding ties. Cooperation between the regions produced positive outcomes in the past, Kwankwaso explained. He urged citizens to move beyond divisions that hindered progress.
Kwankwaso avoided assigning blame for recent frictions. Instead, he advocated collective forgiveness. His message resonated with themes of unity that Nigerian leaders promoted at various times since independence.
Analysts viewed the statement as an attempt to rebuild bridges. Kwankwaso, who contested the presidency previously, continued to influence northern politics. His comments came at a time when cross regional partnerships attracted renewed interest.
The politician’s words reinforced a simple appeal. Nigerians must prioritize shared goals over historical differences. This approach, he suggested, would strengthen the country moving forward.
