We've To Forgive Ourselves And Work Together, South-East Has Been Our Ally Over The Years–Kwankwaso

According to a report by Daily Post on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, Rabiu Kwankwaso, the presidential running mate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has stated that political leaders from Northern Nigeria have resolved to forgive the South-East and strengthen cooperation with the region in the interest of national unity.

He made the remark during an interview with BBC Igbo, where he stressed the importance of rebuilding relationships across the country's regions.

Speaking during the interview, Kwankwaso reflected on Nigeria's political history, noting that prominent figures from the South-East and the North had previously maintained productive political alliances despite the country's past conflicts.

He pointed to the period after the civil war as an example of how leaders chose dialogue and collaboration instead of division.

The former governor of Kano State recalled that the late Biafran leader, Odumegwu Ojukwu, and former Vice President Alex Ekwueme both worked with political parties that had strong Northern support during their political careers.

According to him, their participation in national politics demonstrated that reconciliation and cooperation were possible despite historical differences.

Kwankwaso maintained that Nigeria's progress depends on stronger partnerships among its diverse regions.

He said leaders from both the North and the South must embrace unity and work collectively toward the country's development rather than allowing past grievances to dictate present political relationships.

He further explained that mutual understanding and forgiveness are necessary for sustaining peace and strengthening national integration.

According to him, cooperation among the country's various regions has been a defining feature of Nigeria's political history and should continue to guide present-day leadership.

The NDC vice-presidential candidate also referred to earlier political collaborations that brought together leaders from different parts of the country.

He noted that such alliances played significant roles in shaping Nigeria's democratic journey and reflected a shared commitment to national interests above regional differences.

He said: “We have to forgive ourselves and work together as one family, the South-East has been our ally and friend over the years. During the time of our fathers in politics, the Northern Peoples Congress formed an alliance with the National Council of Nigerian Citizens led by Nnamdi Azikiwe.”