The All Progressives Congress (APC) has said former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is free to join the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections, even as it confirmed that no formal discussions have taken place.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, described Kwankwaso as an elite and eminent Nigerian who, like every citizen, has the freedom to make political choices.

“Kwankwaso is one of Nigeria’s eminent citizens and is free, as a political agent, to decide for himself whether to join our party or remain in his party,” Morka said.

When asked whether the APC would welcome Kwankwaso, Morka reaffirmed the party’s open-door policy, stating: “If tomorrow Kwankwaso decides to join the APC, we will deal with it as we have with others whether they are governors, lawmakers, or ordinary citizens. Our doors are open to those who share our vision and are ready to work with the president.”

He emphasized that no formal conversation had yet taken place between the party and Kwankwaso.

Addressing internal matters, Morka responded to speculation surrounding the recent resignation of APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, saying there were no hidden motives.

“What we disclosed is what we believe and know. It’s not our place to speculate,” he said, adding that consultations are ongoing to select a substantive replacement.

On rumours that President Bola Tinubu might be considering a new running mate for the 2027 election, Morka described the talk as premature, insisting: “We have a sitting vice president, and that’s all that matters now. It is entirely the president’s prerogative.”

Meanwhile, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has weighed in on suggestions that Kwankwaso could be offered the vice presidential slot in a possible merger with the APC.

Ladipo Johnson, National Publicity Secretary of the NNPP, said the proposal is not insulting, but any decision would depend on collective consensus within the movement.

“It’s not insulting to offer him. Whether he accepts or not is another issue. It depends on the structure and values of any coalition we are building,” Johnson said.

He added that informal political discussions have continued since the 2023 elections, involving the Labour Party, PDP, and individuals within the APC.