Rabiu Kwankwaso, national leader of New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has said he would only leave his party for another political platform if he is offered either the presidential or vice-presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general election.
Gatekeepers News reports that the former Kano State Governor made this known while addressing supporters at his residence in Kano. He stated that although he has spent over 40 years in politics, any decision to defect must clearly benefit him and his political structure across the country.
Kwankwaso disclosed that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had approached him to join the party but said the discussion failed because there was no clear offer that matched his political standing or protected the interests of his supporters.
The politician said, “We told them that we agree to go with you, but what will you give me? Appointments? How many? Which one among them will fit me, which I will accept? Which one will also fit the national chairman since the national chairman and his executives are important people with values? They didn’t answer any of it.”
He also restated NNPP’s commitment to the Kwankwasiyya ideology, noting that the movement focuses on uplifting the poor and empowering young people through education, jobs, healthcare, and agriculture. He stressed that unity within Kano State remains crucial for future electoral success.
He said, “Some are saying it’s just a plan to have options one, two, three, etc. We brought those options then, but this time it’s a national issue, and Kano state must be united so we can win again in the next elections.”
Kwankwaso also reacted to reports that Abba Yusuf, Governor of Kano, plans to defect to the APC. He expressed shock over the move and said he was neither consulted nor informed about the decision.
Kwankwaso said, “This is a lesson to all of us. We thought everyone had understood. We never expected betrayal. The most painful thing is that after everything we did to rescue Kano from Ganduje and the APC, you have now handed the governorship back to him free of charge.”
He urged his supporters to remain calm and continue praying, adding that anyone who has access to those involved should advise them to reconsider their actions.
Kwankwaso said, “We want to give you an assignment: continue praying for them. Secondly, if any of you are in contact with them, tell them to stop.”
