Former presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has given the reason he resigned from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), citing the need for a “strategic realignment” in response to Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, just as party founder, Mr. Boniface Aniebonam, disclosed that the former governor and his followers are on their own, departing the party.
In a statement announcing his immediate resignation, Kwankwaso described the decision as difficult but necessary, noting that recent developments in the country’s politics required a recalibration of alliances ahead of future engagements. He said aligning with a different political platform would provide a better opportunity to “effectively change the nation.”
“I wish to formally announce my resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party with immediate effect,” he said, adding that the move would enable him to contribute more meaningfully to national progress.
Kwankwaso, who flew the NNPP flag in the 2023 presidential election, expressed gratitude to the party’s leadership and members for their support during his tenure. He specifically acknowledged the contributions of the National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, National Executive Committee, and party faithful across the country, as well as members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement for their loyalty and dedication.
He is expected to formally join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday, March 30.
NNPP Distances Itself from Defection
Reacting to the development, NNPP founder, Boniface Aniebonam, stated that the party is not part of Kwankwaso’s planned move to the ADC and made it clear that his defection does not reflect the position of the party.
In a statement issued in Lagos, Aniebonam said most NNPP members would not follow Kwankwaso to his new political platform, adding that many had already defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“We are not joining ADC. Most of our members in Kano State have moved to the APC. Only a fraction of the Kwankwasiyya Movement may follow their leader,” he said.
Aniebonam also stressed that Kwankwaso and some of his allies, including former NNPP National Chairman, Ahmed Ajuji, had previously been expelled from the party following internal disputes and court rulings. He dismissed Ajuji’s recent directive urging party officials to remain in their positions, describing it as lacking legitimacy.
“The NNPP will not accept Kwankwaso back into its fold nor allow him to fly our flag again,” Aniebonam said, adding that the party had already begun consultations ahead of the 2027 presidential elections.
He noted that, unlike in 2023, when the party handed its presidential ticket to Kwankwaso, future aspirants would be required to emerge through a competitive primary process.
Despite the sharp differences, Kwankwaso, in his resignation statement, called for continued cooperation among political stakeholders, expressing optimism that collaborative efforts would still be essential in building a more prosperous Nigeria.
