Ladipo Johnson, spokesman for Rabiu Kwankwaso, acknowledged the growing tensions during an interview with ARISE News on Wednesday. While he insisted that preparations for the general election remained on track, Johnson conceded that disagreements between certain members of the movement and its leadership had created significant friction.
“Yes, we have a distraction at the moment,” Johnson stated.
He cautioned that unilateral actions by specific factions could breed bad blood and erode the carefully built support structure underpinning Obi’s bid. Johnson warned that such manoeuvres risked undermining the very coalition they purportedly seek to elevate.
Johnson also confirmed that Obi had been fully briefed on the turmoil. “I saw the presidential candidate last night along with the DG. He’s not happy about the whole situation,” he revealed.
Despite the turmoil, Johnson expressed confidence that the dispute would be resolved before the official campaign season commences. “Any minor issues will be sorted out. We’re still strong and focused, especially on both the presidential and vice-presidential candidates,” he said, maintaining that the movement remained united behind the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket.
Regarding external interference, Johnson stated he had observed no direct meddling by political opponents, though he cautioned that unresolved grievances could leave the coalition vulnerable to exploitation. He urged all support groups backing the proposed ticket to align their efforts and avoid actions capable of destabilising the opposition coalition.
“You can have as many support groups as possible. It’s all good so long as they’re all working in the same direction,” Johnson added.