In a recent statement from Lagos, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) revealed that its members would feel a great sense of relief if Rabiu Kwankwaso, the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, officially joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The statement was issued by NNPP National Secretary Mr. Oginni Olaposi on Sunday.
The comments were made following the resignation of APC national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, who stepped down last Friday citing health concerns. Reports have linked Ganduje’s resignation to a possible political arrangement involving Kwankwaso’s defection to the APC.
Olaposi acknowledged that Ganduje’s resignation is an internal issue for the APC but said the NNPP felt compelled to respond due to the contentious relationship between Kwankwaso and the party. He pointed out that despite Kwankwaso’s expulsion for alleged anti-party activities, the former governor still claims membership in the NNPP.
The NNPP official accused Kwankwaso of attempting to take over the party and embroiling it in unnecessary legal disputes. He highlighted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently restored the NNPP logo after years of litigation caused by Kwankwaso’s attempt to replace it with the Kwankwasiya Movement logo.
Olaposi expressed doubts about reports suggesting that Ganduje resigned to pave the way for a deal with Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 presidential election. He referenced Ganduje’s previous statements about APC’s readiness to forgive and accommodate defectors.
The NNPP secretary said the party would be glad if Kwankwaso’s move to APC happens, as the ruling party is better positioned to handle his political challenges. He lamented Kwankwaso’s betrayal of the party’s trust, noting that the former governor tried to hijack the party from its founder, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, who had supported his presidential bid in 2023.