NNPP Dismisses Reports of Kwankwaso's Alleged Defection Negotiations with APC
The New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) has strongly denied circulating reports suggesting that its national leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, engaged in negotiations with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding a potential defection ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party's national spokesperson, Ladipo Johnson, categorically dismissed these speculations as "blatant lies" designed to tarnish Kwankwaso's political reputation and influence.
Official Denial and Political Context
In an exclusive interview with The Punch newspaper, Johnson clarified that Kwankwaso never contemplated defecting to the APC and had no discussions with President Bola Tinubu about joining the ruling party. The NNPP spokesperson emphasized that the last meeting between Kwankwaso and President Tinubu occurred in 2024, during which no defection talks took place. Johnson attributed these rumors to political opponents seeking to prevent Kwankwaso from aligning with other opposition forces.
These denials come amid heightened political tensions in Kano State following Governor Abba Yusuf's recent defection to the APC. Some reports had suggested that Kwankwaso's alleged "high demands" during negotiations caused a fallout with the APC. However, the NNPP has firmly rejected these claims, asserting that Kwankwaso maintains his integrity and commitment to public interest in Nigeria's political landscape.
Kwankwaso's Political Profile and Background
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 69-year-old NNPP leader, remains a significant figure in Nigerian politics with aspirations for the presidency or vice-presidency in 2027. Recognizable by his signature red cap, Kwankwaso has built a substantial political movement known as Kwankwasiyya, which translates to the "Red Cap Revolution" in Hausa. His political career includes:
- Serving two terms as Governor of Kano State (1999-2003 and 2011-2015)
- Appointment as Minister of Defence under President Olusegun Obasanjo (2003-2007)
- Representing Kano Central Senatorial District in the Senate (2015-2019)
- Leading the NNPP since joining the party
Throughout his career, Kwankwaso has demonstrated political flexibility by moving between approximately four different parties, including his notable transition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in 2013. Despite leading a party that struggles for national acceptance, Kwankwaso maintains a loyal following in Kano, one of Nigeria's most populous states.
Recent Political Developments and Allegations
Political observers have noted increasing speculation about Kwankwaso's potential departure from the NNPP ahead of the 2027 elections. These rumors gained traction after comments by Baba Yusuf, Group Chief Executive Officer of Global Investment and Trade Company, who suggested during an Arise News interview that Kwankwaso misjudged his political leverage in reported negotiations with the APC.
Additionally, Kwankwaso has previously accused President Tinubu of sidelining Kano State in federal matters, particularly regarding the distribution of rice palliatives. The former governor alleged that rice meant for Kano residents was instead distributed to APC stalwarts. He also noted unusual rotations of Department of State Services (DSS) directors in Kano, suggesting political interference.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 election cycle, these developments highlight the dynamic nature of political alignments and the strategic positioning of key figures like Kwankwaso. The NNPP's firm denial of defection talks underscores the party's determination to maintain its identity and leadership while navigating Nigeria's complex political terrain.
