In a dramatic showdown ahead of the 2027 elections, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has issued a stern warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, promising a sweeping electoral defeat if his administration continues its current policy direction.
Addressing party faithful and journalists in Kano on Thursday, the NNPP’s Kano State Chairman, Hashimu Dungurawa, launched a blistering attack on the President, accusing him of pursuing policies that have worsened the living conditions of Nigerians since taking office in May 2023.
“We have witnessed a series of policies under President Tinubu that have hurt the common people. He has repeatedly imposed burdens on the Nigerian masses as if they are his adversaries. The policies that have come out of his government are anti-people, and we are certain that this will cost him dearly in the 2027 elections,” Dungurawa said, with an air of confidence. “If Tinubu doesn’t change his ways, we will change him. The people of Nigeria will have their say in 2027.”
Dungurawa’s remarks reflect the growing resentment among certain segments of the Nigerian populace, especially in northern Nigeria, where the NNPP has made substantial inroads. The party, led by former governor of Kano State, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has positioned itself as a formidable opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and its leader, President Tinubu.
A Bitter Critique of Tinubu’s First Year in Office
The NNPP’s critique of the Tinubu administration is not new, but it has gained significant traction with the party’s growing influence and organizational expansion. Dungurawa took particular issue with the president’s economic policies, particularly the removal of subsidies on petrol, which he claims has had a devastating impact on Nigeria’s working class and vulnerable groups.
“From the moment President Tinubu took office, his government began introducing policies that ignored the realities on the ground for the average Nigerian,” Dungurawa charged. “The fuel subsidy removal is just one example of how the government has failed to empathize with the people. What Tinubu doesn’t understand is that the masses are not interested in lofty promises; they want policies that will improve their standard of living.”
Despite criticisms of Tinubu’s economic policies, Dungurawa expressed optimism that the NNPP’s policies would provide a viable alternative, emphasizing the party’s commitment to democratic principles and human development. “We are prepared to offer the people a true alternative to the APC’s governance. Our mission is to restore Nigeria’s economy, invest in infrastructure, and ensure that every Nigerian citizen is given the opportunities they deserve,” he asserted.
A Growing Political Force
As the 2027 elections approach, the NNPP has made significant strides in consolidating its presence nationwide. The party, which made a strong showing in the 2023 elections, is now focusing on securing positions at both the state and federal levels. Dungurawa boasted of the party’s growth, with offices now established in all 36 states and local government areas, signaling its readiness for the forthcoming electoral battle.
“We are not just a party based in Kano or any specific region. The NNPP is a national party, and we are in every state, every local government. We are building our structures for the 2027 elections,” Dungurawa remarked.
The NNPP’s rise to prominence, particularly in the northern region, has been seen as a direct challenge to the APC’s dominance. Dungurawa attributed the party’s success in Kano to its governance under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, whose administration has been lauded for its focus on infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and educational reforms.
“Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has transformed Kano State. From the city centers to the most remote areas, you will see modern infrastructure, and most importantly, people are benefiting from job opportunities and empowerment initiatives. The transformation under the NNPP is proof that we can govern well, and it’s a model for what we will do on a national scale,” Dungurawa said.
He further argued that the party’s successes in Kano, coupled with its expanding influence across the country, make it a serious contender in the upcoming elections. “The 2024 successes were just the beginning. We are on track for even greater accomplishments in 2025 and beyond. Come 2027, we will show the country what true democratic leadership looks like.”
Fears of a One-Party System
Another major concern for the NNPP, according to Dungurawa, is the alleged efforts by the APC-led government to establish a one-party system in Nigeria. While he did not provide specific details, Dungurawa claimed that the government’s actions were aimed at stifling political opposition and undermining the democratic process.
“This is perhaps the most critical challenge facing us as a party and as a country. The government is clearly making moves to suppress opposition parties. We will not allow that to happen. Nigerians have the right to choose their leaders, and that choice should not be limited,” he stated emphatically.
Despite these challenges, Dungurawa remained resolute in the NNPP’s mission, stating that the party would not back down in its fight for democracy and the betterment of the Nigerian people.
A Call for Unity
In his final remarks, Dungurawa called on Nigerians to unite under the banner of the NNPP, stressing that the party represented the aspirations of all citizens, particularly those who have been marginalized by the current government.
“Let us all come together as one people with a common goal: to restore the dignity of Nigeria. The NNPP is not just a political party; it is the voice of the people, and we are committed to a better future for every Nigerian,” Dungurawa concluded.