The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) says it would be a major relief if its 2023 presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, formally defects to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
This position was made public in a statement released on Sunday by the party’s National Secretary, Mr. Oginni Olaposi, in response to the recent resignation of APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje.
Ganduje stepped down from his post on Friday, citing health concerns. However, his resignation has fueled speculations of a behind-the-scenes political deal that could see Kwankwaso returning to the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.
Olaposi noted that while Ganduje’s resignation is an internal issue within the APC, the NNPP felt compelled to respond due to its ongoing dispute with Kwankwaso, who he insists has been expelled from the party for alleged anti-party activities.
“Kwankwaso still insists he is a member of our party despite his expulsion,” Olaposi said. “He did not just attempt to hijack the NNPP; his actions led us into prolonged and unnecessary legal battles. The party’s logo, which he replaced with that of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, has only just been restored by INEC after years of controversy.”
The NNPP scribe expressed skepticism about claims that Ganduje’s resignation is part of a calculated move to pave the way for Kwankwaso’s return to the APC.
“We find it difficult to believe that Kwankwaso, who is still desperately trying to wrest control of the NNPP, is also negotiating to join the ruling party,” he said.
Nonetheless, Olaposi noted that the NNPP would be “delighted” if any such deal materialized, suggesting that the APC is better equipped to handle the political “baggage” Kwankwaso carries.
He accused the former Kano State governor of betraying the party’s trust, saying, “Kwankwaso turned against the founder of the party, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, who offered him a free ticket to contest the 2023 presidential election.”
The NNPP’s statement reflects growing tensions within the opposition party and highlights the shifting political alliances as Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 general elections.
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