Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso has formally declared his intentions to contest the 2019 presidential election in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital on Wednesday.
The former Kano governor who was denied from using the Eagle Square by the Federal Capital Territory resorted to using the Chida Hotel Event Centre, thereby shutting down some parts of the capital.
His declaration also coincides with UK Prime Minister Theresa May’s first visit to Africa and Nigeria.
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In a show of strength, Kwankwaso’s Kwankwasiyya Movement shut down the Solomon Lar way, Jabi/Utako was also thronged by his supporters making vehicular movement almost impossible.
Kwankwaso who declared his ambition on the platform of the main opposition party, Peoples Democratic Party, will face competition to be the party’s flag bearer.
Also vying for the presidential ticket are Senate President Bukola Saraki, Sokoto governor Aminu Tambuwal, former Plateau governor Jonah Jang among others.
Kwankwaso and his red-cap wearing supporters are optimistic that he can overcome the party hurdles and even win the 2019 presidential election.