Rabiu Kwankwaso, the national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), unequivocally stated his commitment to the party, dismissing rumors of defection. At the NNPP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, Kwankwaso addressed the speculation head-on, assuring members of his unwavering loyalty and emphasizing the party’s positive trajectory, particularly in Kano State. He acknowledged the heightened interest in his political future, fueled by recent media reports, but firmly reiterated his dedication to the NNPP and his contentment within its ranks. Kwankwaso stressed the party’s preparedness for the political landscape, highlighting their strategic, unhurried approach to future elections.
Kwankwaso’s address served to allay concerns and solidify party unity. He underscored the principle of collective decision-making, stating that any negotiations regarding the 2027 general elections would involve the entire NNPP family. This emphasis on inclusivity and party supremacy aimed to quell anxieties and reinforce the idea of a shared political destiny. Kwankwaso’s message was clear: there was no internal dissent or desire to leave the NNPP. He characterized those fueling defection rumors as lacking experience and understanding of the political dynamics at play, inviting them to seek clarification from seasoned politicians like himself.
The NNPP leader drew upon his own political history to impart a lesson in resilience and strategic patience. Recounting his 2003 gubernatorial loss in Kano State, despite being the incumbent governor, Kwankwaso highlighted the unpredictable nature of public sentiment and the influence of prominent figures like the late President Muhammadu Buhari. He underscored his eventual return to power eight years later, framing it as a testament to perseverance and the cyclical nature of politics. This anecdote served to encourage party members to remain focused on the long game and not be swayed by short-term setbacks.
He further projected confidence in the NNPP’s prospects for the 2027 elections, asserting that Nigerians are already forming their opinions and that “reality” will ultimately dictate the outcome. This statement reflected a belief in the party’s growing appeal and the public’s discerning judgment. The NEC meeting also provided a platform for other key figures within the NNPP to reaffirm their commitment and highlight the party’s strengths.
Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, the NNPP’s National Chairman, described the party as the “beautiful bride of Nigerian politics and democracy,” emphasizing its growing influence as the 2027 elections draw nearer. This characterization aimed to portray the NNPP as an attractive and viable political force. Ahmed also used the opportunity to encourage wider civic participation, urging eligible citizens to register for their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), a crucial step in exercising their democratic rights. This call for voter registration signaled the party’s commitment to expanding its base and mobilizing support.
Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State, represented by his deputy, Aminu Gwarzo, echoed the sentiments of unwavering loyalty and progress under Kwankwaso’s leadership. Gwarzo claimed that the NNPP had won two recent by-elections in Kano but was unfairly denied victory. This assertion, though unsubstantiated, served to highlight the party’s perceived strength and its claims of electoral manipulation. He expressed confidence in reclaiming the purportedly stolen mandates, signaling the party’s intention to actively contest electoral outcomes they deemed unjust. Bishop Isaac Idahosa, the NNPP’s 2023 Vice Presidential candidate, further reinforced the party’s readiness for the 2027 elections, praising Kwankwaso’s focused leadership.
The NEC meeting, beyond being a platform for declarations of loyalty and future aspirations, also served as a venue for organizational restructuring and reinforcement. Caretaker committees were appointed for Kogi, Gombe, Taraba, and Jigawa states, demonstrating the party’s efforts to expand its reach and strengthen its organizational structure across the country. The extension of the Lagos State chairman’s tenure indicated a degree of stability within the party’s leadership in strategically important regions. The presence of NEC-elected political officers and an INEC observer team underscored the official nature of the meeting and the party’s commitment to operating within the established electoral framework. The proceedings of the meeting, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), painted a picture of a party consolidating its internal structure, projecting confidence in its future prospects, and positioning itself as a significant player in the Nigerian political landscape.
