By HARUNA AHMED, Kano–
New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has expressed that it would be a huge relief for its members if Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso, its 2023 presidential candidate, joins the All Progressives Congress (APC).
This reaction comes amid speculations that Kwankwaso might be negotiating to join the ruling party following the resignation of APC’s national chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje.
*“Kwankwaso’s alleged betrayal”*
The NNPP National Secretary, Oginni Olaposi, in a statement on Sunday, stated that Kwankwaso’s actions have been questionable, especially after trying to hijack the party and causing litigations.
“Kwankwaso still insists he is a member of our party even after his expulsion for alleged anti-party activities,” Olaposi said.
“Kwankwaso did not only try to hijack the NNPP but made the party go through avoidable litigations.”
Big relief for NNPP
Olaposi added that if Kwankwaso joins APC, it would be a relief for NNPP members.
“We would be elated if any proposed deal between APC and Kwankwaso became reality as the ruling party is in a better position to handle his baggage,” he said.
“We find it difficult to believe that Kwankwaso who is still struggling to hijack the NNPP is also negotiating to join the ruling party.”
Ganduje’s Resignation
Ganduje’s resignation as APC national chairman has sparked various reactions, with some speculating that it might be connected to Kwankwaso’s alleged move to join the party.
However, Olaposi doubts the authenticity of this claim, citing Ganduje’s previous statements on welcoming defectors to APC.
“It is on record that Ganduje once said that APC is always ready to pardon and accommodate defectors even those who left its fold,” he noted.
*“Kwankwaso’s Past Actions”*
Olaposi also highlighted Kwankwaso’s past actions, stating that he “betrayed our trust in him by trying to hijack the party from its founder, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, who facilitated his free ticket for the 2023 presidential election.”
The NNPP logo, which Kwankwaso changed to the Kwankwasiya Movement logo, has been restored by INEC after years of controversy and litigations.
