Lagos: The Founder of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, has categorically stated that the party’s members are not participating in Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso’s planned defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Aniebonam clarified this in a statement issued on Sunday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Kwankwaso announced his resignation from the NNPP, effective immediately, in a statement on Sunday. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the NNPP’s 2023 presidential candidate, though he acknowledged that the decision to leave was not made lightly. Kwankwaso cited the current political landscape as a reason for his decision to align with another platform that he believes offers better opportunities for national change. He is set to officially join the ADC on Monday, March 30.
In a memo, Dr. Ahmed Ajuji, former national chairman of the NNPP and member of the Kwankwasiya Movement, urged members of the NNPP’s National Working Committee, state chairmen, and other officeholders to maintain their positions within the party, unless they wish to resign and pursue other political paths. Ajuji highlighted ongoing efforts to unify the party and resolve ongoing legal disputes.
Aniebonam emphasized that, while he wishes Kwankwaso well, the NNPP would not serve as a fallback option should Kwankwaso’s endeavors with the ADC fail. He noted that most NNPP members in Kano State have joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), leaving only members of the Kwankwasiya movement who might follow Kwankwaso to the ADC. Aniebonam reiterated that Ajuji and other members of the Kwankwasiya movement, including Kwankwaso, had been expelled from the NNPP following successful court cases against them.
Aniebonam also pointed out that the NNPP will not welcome Kwankwaso back, nor allow him to represent the party in any capacity again. He remarked on the lack of belief in the ADC or in Kwankwaso’s prospects there among the remaining Kwankwasiya movement members.
Looking ahead, Aniebonam stated that the NNPP is already engaging with potential candidates for the 2027 presidential elections, emphasizing that all aspirants will need to participate in party primaries. He stressed that the party would not repeat past mistakes of handing over candidacies without due process and remains open to accepting returning members, except those expelled for anti-party activities.
Aniebonam concluded by expressing relief at Kwankwaso’s departure, anticipating a return to peace within the NNPP. He also highlighted the party’s openness to future collaborations with ideologically similar parties, contingent on member decisions leading up to the 2027 general elections.