Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso
National Leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, has firmly dismissed rumors of defecting to another political party.
Speaking at the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja on Thursday, Kwankwaso emphasized his commitment to the NNPP, stating, “We have our party, and we are comfortable. We are happy.”
Addressing speculations about his political future, Kwankwaso clarified that the NNPP is thriving, particularly in Kano and other states.
“We are very happy about that,” he noted, dispelling false reports about a potential exit.
He stressed that any decisions regarding the 2027 general elections would involve collective input from the party’s members, saying, “If there will be any negotiation, it will be collective. It will not be only for the negotiators but for the entire members of this NNPP family.”
Kwankwaso urged party members to ignore the allure of politicians switching parties, advising, “Those people don’t understand, and they don’t have much experience. They believe that they know when they actually don’t know.”
Reflecting on his political journey, he recalled losing the 2003 Kano governorship election despite being the incumbent, only to reclaim power eight years later.
“That’s a good lesson for everybody,” he remarked, adding that Nigerians have already decided their preferences for 2027, and “reality will determine the people’s votes.”
The NNPP’s National Chairman, Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, described the party as “the beautiful bride of Nigerian politics and democracy,” poised for success in the upcoming elections.
He encouraged citizens to register for their permanent voter cards to strengthen the party’s base.
Representing Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo claimed the NNPP was unfairly denied victories in two recent Kano by-elections but expressed optimism about reclaiming the mandate.
The party’s 2023 Vice Presidential candidate, Bishop Isaac Idahosa, echoed this confidence, stating that the NNPP is gaining a “focused direction” under Kwankwaso’s leadership.
The meeting also saw the appointment of caretaker committees for Kogi, Gombe, Taraba, and Jigawa states, alongside the extension of the Lagos State chairman’s tenure. Notable attendees included NNPP elected officials and an observer team from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
