The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has clarified that Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano does not require Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso’s endorsement to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) or any other political party of his choice.
The party also stressed that the governor is under no obligation to seek Kwankwaso’s approval to remain in the NNPP.
Yusuf is currently the NNPP’s sole governor, while Kwankwaso, the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, was later expelled over alleged anti-party activities.
The clarification follows a statement by Kwankwaso’s spokesman, Mr. Ladipo Johnson, denying claims that the former presidential candidate had endorsed Yusuf’s defection to the APC. Johnson said reports suggesting a reversal of Kwankwaso’s position were false and attributed them to misinformation spread by those planning to leave the NNPP.
NNPP National Secretary, Mr. Ogini Olaposi, reiterated in Lagos on Monday that as the party’s sole governor and leader, Yusuf is constitutionally free to make his own political choices.
“While we encourage the governor to remain in the NNPP, we acknowledge his right to join any party due to ongoing legal challenges,” Olaposi said.
He added that the party holds no grievances against the APC or any other political group and cannot coerce the governor to stay.
“If the governor decides to leave the NNPP, no form of intimidation or pressure can prevent him,” he stated.
Olaposi also urged Kwankwaso and his Kwankwasiya Movement to stop interfering and allow the governor to continue his work in Kano unhindered.
He questioned whether Kwankwaso’s stance on Yusuf’s alleged defection is motivated by personal issues or godfatherism, stressing that any reservations should remain personal and not be imposed on others.
Responding to allegations that some Kwankwasiya members considered Yusuf’s possible move a betrayal, the NNPP said it was a matter of political accountability.
“Kwankwaso now understands how betrayal feels after attempting to take control of a party that gave him a platform for free in 2023,” Olaposi added.
He concluded by affirming the party’s support for Gov. Yusuf’s leadership while continuing to encourage him to reconsider and remain with the NNPP for the benefit of the party and its members.