“Obi! Kwankwaso!”: Sallah Rally in Kano Turns Political as Crowd Erupts in Chants

A Sallah celebration in Kano took an unexpected political turn as a crowd of residents broke into chants of “Obi! Kwankwaso!” during a public gathering, underscoring the enduring popularity of the two opposition figures in the state

The chants, captured in a now-viral video, rang out as attendees gathered to mark the festive occasion, with many in the crowd audibly repeating the names of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Eyewitnesses said the atmosphere, initially celebratory, quickly took on a political tone as the slogans gained momentum among participants. The crowd repeatedly chorused “Obi! Kwankwaso!”—a development seen by observers as a reflection of lingering political sentiments following Nigeria’s last general elections.

The rally, held as part of Sallah festivities, drew a large turnout, typical of such celebrations in the northern commercial hub. However, the spontaneous political chants stood out, drawing attention on social media and reigniting conversations about the influence of both men in Kano and beyond.

Neither Obi nor Kwankwaso was officially present at the event, and there was no immediate indication that the chants were organised. Still, analysts say the moment highlights the continuing resonance of their political messages among segments of the populace.

The incident adds to a growing pattern of public gatherings morphing into subtle expressions of political alignment, even outside formal campaign periods.