The Founder of the *mNew Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) Dr Boniface Aniebonam, has clarified that the party is not part of Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso’s decision to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC)
In a statement issued in Lagos, Aniebonam said the move by Kwankwaso does not reflect the position of the NNPP or its members nationwide.
Kwankwaso had earlier announced his resignation from the NNPP, citing the need for political realignment and a new platform to pursue his vision for Nigeria.
The former presidential candidate is expected to formally join the ADC on March 30, 2026.
Reacting to the development, Aniebonam stated that only members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement loyal to Kwankwaso may follow him to the new party.
He stressed that the NNPP remains intact and will continue its political activities independent of the former Kano governor.
Aniebonam also pointed out that Kwankwaso, alongside key figures such as Ahmed Ajuji and Buba Galadima, had previously been expelled from the party.
According to him, court rulings had upheld the party’s decisions, reinforcing that the individuals no longer hold authority within the NNPP.
He dismissed recent statements attributed to Ajuji, noting that he lacks the legitimacy to issue directives on behalf of the party.
The NNPP founder further revealed that many party members, including Kano State Governor Yusuf Ahmed, had earlier moved to the All Progressives Congress (APC) due to internal disputes.
He added that the party has moved on and is focusing on rebuilding and preparing for future elections.
Aniebonam made it clear that Kwankwaso would not be welcomed back into the NNPP, regardless of developments in his new political alignment.
He also noted that the party has begun consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with plans to conduct transparent primaries for all aspirants.
Reflecting on past experiences, he said the party would avoid previous mistakes, particularly the decision to hand over its presidential ticket without a competitive process in 2023.
While expressing openness to collaborations with like-minded political groups, Aniebonam emphasised that such decisions would be made collectively by party members.
He concluded that Kwankwaso’s exit could help stabilise the NNPP, allowing it to focus on unity and growth ahead of future political contests.
