The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has said it would be a major relief if its 2023 presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, finalises plans to return to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement issued Sunday in Lagos, NNPP National Secretary, Mr. Oginni Olaposi, made the remarks while reacting to the recent resignation of APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, and speculations linking the move to a broader political arrangement that could pave the way for Kwankwaso’s return to the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Though Ganduje cited health concerns as the reason for stepping down on Friday, reports suggest the decision may be part of a wider reconciliation strategy aimed at repositioning the APC and reabsorbing estranged party figures, including Kwankwaso.
Olaposi stressed that while Ganduje’s resignation is strictly an internal APC affair, the NNPP chose to respond due to unresolved disputes with Kwankwaso.
“Kwankwaso still claims to be a member of our par`ty, despite being expelled for anti-party activities,” he said.
“He not only tried to hijack the NNPP, but also plunged the party into needless legal battles, including attempts to change our logo to match his Kwankwasiyya Movement.”
He noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has now restored the party’s original logo after a prolonged court process.
On the alleged defection deal, Olaposi remarked:
“We doubt the rumour that Ganduje’s resignation was to facilitate a deal with Kwankwaso, but if it turns out to be true, we welcome the development. The APC is in a better position to manage the baggage he brings.”
Olaposi also accused Kwankwaso of betraying the trust of NNPP founder, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, who, according to him, gave the former Kano governor a free presidential ticket in 2023.
“It’s ironic that he’s still trying to hijack our party while negotiating to join another. That contradiction speaks volumes,” Olaposi added.
He concluded by stating that Kwankwaso’s exit would give the NNPP room to rebuild, and that the party remains confident in its future without him.
