Engineer Buba Galadima, a leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has described the Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso presidential ticket as a “healing ticket” that could help unite Nigeria and address the country’s long-standing divisions.

Speaking during an interview with Arise News on Wednesday, Galadima said he and other members of the Kwankwasiyya movement supported Obi because they believe his partnership with Kwankwaso offers the best chance to rebuild the country.

“It is our belief that this is the only ticket that can salvage Nigeria. Not only salvage it, but it is a ticket we call the ‘healing ticket,’ designed so that we can forget the past,” Galadima said.

He explained that the alliance was created to strengthen ties between the North and the South-East, adding that Obi should be seen as a Nigerian leader rather than a candidate representing one ethnic group.

Galadima said the group had spent more than two years working to improve understanding between both regions. According to him, the effort has helped reduce tensions and encouraged dialogue.

He also said Obi had promised to focus on security, agriculture and education if elected president, while involving members of the alliance in tackling the challenges.

“Peter Obi has agreed that if he becomes the President of Nigeria, he will not only address these three issues personally, but he will make us part of those who will work on these issues,” he said.

Responding to critics, Galadima argued that there was no reason to attack those supporting Obi, noting that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar had previously chosen running mates from the South-East.

He admitted that ethnic and religious politics had contributed to Nigeria’s divisions but insisted the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket was focused on national unity.

“This ticket is not about Igbos, Hausas, Yorubas, Islam, or Christianity. This ticket is about Nigeria,” he said.

Galadima added that, if elected, the alliance would prioritise job creation, agriculture, skills development and local manufacturing to revive the economy and reduce unemployment.