Former Kano State governor and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 general election, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has formally resigned from the party, citing the need for what he described as a “strategic realignment” in response to Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
In a personally signed statement released on Sunday, Kwankwaso said his resignation takes immediate effect and marks the end of a significant chapter in his political journey within the NNPP, where he served both as National Leader and presidential flagbearer.
“I wish to formally announce my resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party 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 stated.
The former Kano State governor acknowledged that leaving the party was a difficult decision but said prevailing national realities had made a new political direction necessary.
“As a committed and bona fide member of the party, this was not an easy decision to make. 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 effectively change the nation,” he added.
Kwankwaso also expressed appreciation to the NNPP leadership, particularly National Chairman Ajuji Ahmed, as well as members of the National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, National Executive Committee, and party structures across the country for their support during his time in the party.
He extended special gratitude to supporters of the influential Kwankwasiyya Movement, describing their dedication as central to the movement’s political strength and enduring relevance.
“We shall continue to collaborate and work together towards charting a better and more prosperous future for our dear nation,” he said.
A Defining Shift in Northern Politics
Kwankwaso remains one of northern Nigeria’s most influential political figures, with his grassroots-driven Kwankwasiyya Movement playing a decisive role in shaping electoral outcomes, particularly in Kano.
His political career has seen him move through several major parties before leading the NNPP into the 2023 elections, where he retained considerable influence in the North-West despite broader national competition.
Recent developments, however, exposed cracks within his political base, especially following tensions involving Abba Kabir Yusuf, whose reported defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was widely viewed as a major setback for the NNPP.
Given Kano’s strategic political weight and its role as the traditional backbone of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, the development intensified speculation about Kwankwaso’s next move.
ADC Move Gains Momentum
In recent weeks, Kwankwaso has held consultations with senior opposition figures within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola.
Those meetings have strengthened speculation of an emerging opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Adding to that momentum, the Kwankwasiyya Movement announced on Saturday evening that Kwankwaso is expected to formally defect to the ADC on Monday — a move that could significantly reshape opposition politics in Nigeria.
His departure from the NNPP is widely seen as one of the most consequential political developments ahead of the next election cycle, with potential implications for party alliances, regional influence, and opposition strategy nationwide.
About the Author
