The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has appealed to its members across Kano State in North West Nigeria to remain loyal to the party amid reports that some high-profile members are planning to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move it says runs contrary to its collective vision and the mandate of its supporters.
The Kano State Chairman of the NNPP, Hashim Dungurawa, made the appeal in Kano during a press briefing on behalf of the party’s state and national leadership, including its national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
He said the party was aware of ongoing political realignments in Kano involving some individuals considering a move to the APC.
Dungurawa said both the Kano State chapter and the national leadership had made efforts to persuade those involved to exercise patience and remain within the party, stressing that the NNPP bears responsibility not only to its members but also to the electorate that voted for change.
“once again we appeal to them, for the sake of unity and the mandate given to us by the people, not to abandon the party for one we have consistently opposed and which the masses rejected,” he said.
Positioning the issue within a broader national context, the NNPP Chairman reaffirmed its commitment to policies aimed at alleviating hardship, improving education, boosting agriculture and strengthening commerce, noting that these objectives are central to the party’s constitution and its national agenda.
Internal Rifts
The party also dismissed as unfounded rumours suggesting internal divisions, particularly claims that some NNPP leaders were attempting to pitch Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf against Senator Kwankwaso.
Dungurawa described the allegations as mischievous, insisting that party leaders remain loyal to the NNPP’s leadership structure and values.
He challenged those making such claims to present evidence, adding that unity within the party remains intact despite political pressures.
In a bid to calm public tension, the NNPP Chairman advised residents of Kano State and supporters to go about their lawful activities without fear, warning against signing or associating with documents allegedly being circulated by “mischief makers.”
Dungurawa called on the people of Kano to continue supporting the NNPP and its leadership as the country moves toward future elections, framing the party as a national movement committed to democratic ideals and people-oriented governance.