The 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has resigned from the party.
Kwankwaso announced his decision in a statement personally signed on Sunday, citing the need for “strategic realignment” in response to the evolving political landscape.
“I wish to formally announce my resignation from the NNPP with immediate effect. I seize this opportunity to express my profound gratitude for the honour and privilege of serving as the party’s National Leader and its presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections,” he said.
He described the decision as difficult but necessary.
“As a committed member of the party, this was not an easy decision. However, 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 effect meaningful change,” he added.
The former Kano State governor expressed appreciation to the party’s leadership, including National Chairman Ajuji Ahmed, as well as members of the National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, and grassroots supporters across the country. He also thanked followers of the Kwankwasiyya Movement for their loyalty and commitment.
Kwankwaso, a former senator and influential political figure in Kano, rose to prominence through the Kwankwasiyya Movement, which has played a significant role in shaping electoral outcomes in the state. His political career has seen him move across major parties before leading the NNPP into the 2023 general elections, where he retained strong influence in the North-West.
Recent developments, however, have exposed cracks within his political base, particularly following tensions with Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who reportedly defected from the NNPP to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The development was widely seen as a major setback for the party, given Kano’s status as its stronghold.
Amid the uncertainty, Kwankwaso has held meetings with key opposition figures in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola.
The meetings have fuelled speculation about a potential opposition alliance ahead of the 2027 elections.
Meanwhile, the Kwankwasiyya Movement has announced plans for Kwankwaso to formally defect to the ADC on Monday.
