Isaac Samuel, Abuja
Former Governor of Kano State and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the 2023 general election, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has resigned his membership of the party, signaling a major political realignment ahead of the 2027 polls.
Kwankwaso announced his resignation in a statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Sunday, describing the decision as “difficult but necessary” in view of the evolving political landscape in the country.
“I wish to formally announce my resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) with immediate effect,” he said.
The former minister noted that his decision followed careful consideration of the nation’s political trajectory, stressing the need to align with a platform that offers a better opportunity to pursue his political objectives.
“Considering the current trajectory of the nation’s political landscape, which calls for strategic realignment, I have found it necessary to identify with another political platform that offers the best opportunity to effectively change the nation,” Kwankwaso added.
He expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of the NNPP for their support during his time in the party, particularly during the 2023 presidential election where he flew the party’s flag.
Kwankwaso said: “I extend my deepest appreciation to the National Chairman, Ajuji Ahmed, the National Working Committee, the Board of Trustees, and all members of the party across all levels for their steadfast support and commitment to our shared vision.”
He also thanked members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement for their loyalty and dedication, noting that their contributions would remain invaluable in his political journey.
Meanwhile, the former governor is expected to formally join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday in Kano, in what observers describe as a significant boost to the opposition party’s coalition efforts ahead of the next general election.
The planned defection ceremony is scheduled to take place at his Miller Road residence in Kano, where political associates and supporters are expected to gather.
His defection to ADC came after he held a closed door meeting with former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar on Saturday in Abuja.
Kwankwaso’s exit from the NNPP is seen as part of political manoeuvres and alliance-building among opposition figures seeking to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
The development may also reshape the dynamics of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, a strong political bloc in Kano and parts of the North-West, which played a key role in the NNPP’s performance in the last general election.
