The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) on Sunday expressed relief over speculations that its 2023 presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, may defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The stance was declared on Sunday by the NNPP’s National Secretary, Oginni Olaposi, in response to the resignation of APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, which many suggest was linked to negotiations for Kwankwaso’s entry into the party .
Though Ganduje cited health reasons in stepping down last Friday, analysts have speculated his departure might clear the path for an APC–Kwankwaso agreement for the 2027 electionss.
While the NNPP refrained from commenting on the internal dynamics of the APC, Olaposi acknowledged the matter only because of Kwankwaso’s ongoing tension with the NNPP.
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Olaposie told journalists in Lagos that: “Kwankwaso still insists he is a member of our party even after his expulsion for alleged anti‑party activities… He not only tried to hijack the NNPP but dragged us into avoidable litigations.”
A major point of contention was Kwankwaso’s attempt to replace the party’s official logo with his personal “Kwankwasiyya Movement” emblem, a move later reversed by INEC. Olaposi described this branding change as emblematic of deeper party discord.
Referring to speculations about Kwankwaso’s potential defection to the APC, Olaposi expressed scepticism but also relief:
“We would be elated if any proposed deal between APC and Kwankwaso became reality, as the ruling party is in a better position to handle the former Kano governor’s baggage.”
The National Secretary further emphasised the internal strain Kwankwaso had placed on the party and praised founder Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, who had facilitated Kwankwaso’s presidential ticket in 2023.
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