The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has voiced strong approval over reports suggesting that its former presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, may be on the verge of joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), calling the potential defection a “huge relief.”
In a statement released on Sunday in Lagos, NNPP National Secretary Mr. Oginni Olaposi said the party was unfazed by Kwankwaso’s rumored move to the APC, insisting it would welcome his departure.
Olaposi’s remarks followed the resignation of APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, who stepped down on Friday citing health concerns. However, speculation has been rife that Ganduje’s exit might be tied to Kwankwaso’s ongoing discussions with the APC.
“Though Ganduje’s resignation is strictly an APC affair, we feel compelled to speak due to our party’s contentious history with Kwankwaso,” Olaposi said.
“Kwankwaso, despite being expelled for anti-party activities, has continued to parade himself as a member of the NNPP. He tried to hijack the party and dragged us through needless court cases.”
Olaposi also noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had recently reinstated the original NNPP logo, replacing the version altered to reflect the Kwankwasiyya Movement’s symbol.
He dismissed claims that Ganduje’s resignation was designed to pave the way for Kwankwaso’s entry into the APC ahead of the 2027 elections, labeling such reports as mere political propaganda.
“While we doubt the truth of those claims, it’s worth recalling that Ganduje once said the APC would always welcome defectors—even those who previously left the party,” he said.
“If there truly is an agreement between Kwankwaso and the APC, we would be more than pleased. The ruling party is in a better position to deal with Kwankwaso and the political burden he represents.”
Olaposi concluded by accusing Kwankwaso of betraying the confidence of the party’s founder, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, who gave him the platform to contest the 2023 presidential election.
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