The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed reports suggesting its vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, threatened to leave the party following disagreements over candidate selections in Kano State.

The denial comes amid growing speculation of internal tensions within the opposition party as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during an interview on Arise News on Saturday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, described claims of a possible exit by Kwankwaso as unfounded and politically motivated.

“At no time did our leader, Kwankwaso, threaten to leave the party. Those were merely conjectures and media speculations designed to undermine the party,” Director said.

Reports had emerged following recent adjustments to the party’s list of nominees in Kano State, with some members of the Kwankwasiyya movement reportedly expressing dissatisfaction over the changes.

The controversy followed the replacement of certain candidates initially put forward by the political bloc loyal to the former Kano State governor.

According to party officials, the changes were implemented to preserve an existing power-sharing arrangement between the Kwankwasiyya movement and the NDC’s established structure in Kano.

Under the arrangement, the Kwankwasiyya bloc is said to control 60 per cent of party positions and elective tickets, while the remaining 40 per cent are allocated to the party’s original structure in the state.

The developments fuelled speculation that Kwankwaso could reconsider his future within the party if members of his camp were marginalised during the selection process.

However, Director insisted that consultations were ongoing and that disagreements over nominations were normal in political organisations seeking to expand their reach.

He argued that political opponents were attempting to exploit routine internal disagreements to create the impression of a crisis within the party.

Director also cited disputes in other states, including Delta, as evidence that competition for party tickets was not unusual during preparations for major elections.

“There are challenges, but they are normal in party-building. We remain committed to resolving issues through dialogue and moving forward together,” he said.

Founded in 2026, the NDC has emerged as one of the opposition parties seeking to challenge the ruling establishment in the 2027 elections.

Its presidential ticket, pairing former Anambra State governor Peter Obi with Kwankwaso, has attracted significant attention as political parties intensify preparations for the next electoral cycle.

Party officials maintain that despite internal disagreements, efforts are continuing to strengthen structures nationwide and ensure unity ahead of the polls.