The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has strongly denied widespread rumours that its national leader and former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is planning to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The party described the speculation as unfounded and politically motivated.
Speaking during a press briefing in Kano on Friday, the NNPP Chairman in Kano State, Alhaji Hashimu Dungurawa, made it clear that Senator Kwankwaso remains committed to the party and has no intention of leaving.
“We have no business with APC, and do not have any intention to defect,” Dungurawa stated. “This rumour is simply a mischievous act by those who feel threatened by the growing strength of the NNPP.”
Dungurawa insisted that Senator Kwankwaso, a key figure in Nigeria’s political scene and the party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, does not need anyone’s permission to make political decisions. However, he emphasised that no such decision has been made regarding defection.
The defection rumour gained traction following reports that the APC Chairman in Kano had publicly stated the party’s doors were open to Kwankwaso and other political figures willing to return. Political observers interpreted the statement as an indication of behind-the-scenes negotiations.
However, Dungurawa dismissed those claims as baseless. “This is nothing but political propaganda. We are focused on building our party, and Kwankwaso is not in talks with the APC or any other party,” he said.
He went further to suggest that the rumour was a distraction meant to destabilise the NNPP’s rising influence, especially in Kano State where the party currently controls the government.
Dungurawa expressed confidence in the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of the NNPP, noting that the government is making progress in restoring law and order, and addressing the needs of the people.
“The NNPP government in Kano is working hard. We are on the right track. Those peddling defection rumours are only afraid because we are fulfilling our promises to the people,” he said.
Governor Yusuf, who succeeded the APC-led administration in Kano, has been implementing reforms in education, health, and urban development. These efforts, according to party leaders, are solidifying public support for the NNPP.
Senator Kwankwaso remains one of the most influential politicians in northern Nigeria. A former Minister of Defence, he is the founder of the Kwankwasiyya movement, a political structure with a massive grassroots following.
His defection from the PDP to NNPP in the lead-up to the 2023 elections revitalised the party and helped it win the Kano governorship and several legislative seats. As a result, any news regarding his political moves tends to generate national attention.
Dungurawa firmly ruled out any plans for political merger or realignment involving the APC, PDP, or any other political platform.
“Our party is standing strong. Kwankwaso is not going anywhere. In fact, he is working tirelessly with other party leaders to expand the NNPP across Nigeria,” he said.
He also praised the party’s growing support base in several states, especially in the North-West and North-Central regions, saying that the NNPP will continue to build a credible alternative to the mainstream political parties.
The NNPP chairman used the opportunity to call on politicians to focus more on delivering democratic dividends to the people instead of engaging in what he called “cheap political blackmail.”
“Nigerians are tired of empty promises and recycled leaders. That’s why they chose a different path in Kano. We must focus on governance, not rumours,” he said.
He added that the NNPP will continue to support Governor Yusuf’s efforts to improve education, healthcare, and infrastructure, and ensure transparency in public spending.
With preparations already taking shape for the 2027 general elections, Dungurawa said the NNPP is working on strengthening its internal structures and grooming new leaders.
He urged party members across the country to remain united and ignore false narratives being circulated to cause disunity within the party.
“As we approach another election cycle, enemies of progress will try to distract us. But we are not afraid. We are ready to build on what we have started and present a stronger NNPP in 2027,” he concluded.
While the APC in Kano remains open to welcoming old members, including Kwankwaso, the NNPP leadership insists their national leader is committed to the party’s mission. For now, the speculation remains just that — speculation.
