OK ticket a ‘national disaster, says ex-U.S. mayor Arnold, links Kwankwaso to Sharia extremism, corruption

A former United States mayor, Mike Arnold, has voiced strong opposition to any potential political alliance between Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 general election, describing such a ticket as a “national disaster.”

In a lengthy statement posted on X on Monday night, Arnold said he would actively oppose any Obi-Kwankwaso presidential ticket, arguing that Nigeria needed a departure from what he described as recycled political structures.

While expressing openness toward Obi’s political ambitions, Arnold said his support would end if the former Anambra governor selected Kwankwaso as a running mate.

“No, I am not ok with Obi-Kwankwaso — and you shouldn’t be, either,” Arnold wrote.

“I like Peter Obi. I am not sold on him yet, but he has potential, and I have an open mind. What will close my mind instantly, without any wiggle room, is an Obi-Kwankwaso ticket.”

The former mayor accused Kwankwaso of remaining closely aligned with the traditional power structure in northern Nigeria despite his movement across several political parties over the years.

Arnold further alleged that Kwankwaso’s tenure in public office was marked by controversial policies and unresolved allegations, including issues relating to Sharia implementation, the establishment of the Hisbah Board in Kano State, and corruption-related investigations.

He also made a series of claims linking senior northern political and traditional figures to events surrounding Nigeria’s security challenges, though he did not provide evidence to substantiate the allegations.

Among other claims, Arnold referenced previous investigations involving pension funds in Kano State and ongoing scrutiny surrounding pharmaceutical procurement contracts allegedly linked to individuals associated with Kwankwaso.

“Sharia. Hisbah. Pension funds. Pharmaceutical contracts. The Defence Ministry during a genocide. A different party every cycle. And now the vice presidency.

“That is why I will actively oppose any ticket with Kwankwaso on it. No matter who is on top,” Arnold stated.

The former mayor concluded by urging Obi to choose a different running mate if he intends to contest the 2027 presidential election.

Neither Obi nor Kwankwaso had publicly responded to Arnold’s comments as of the time of filing this report.

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