Former Kano State Governor and national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has restated his full commitment to the party and the Kwankwasiyya movement.
The presidential hopeful cautioned politicians who dumped the NNPP that they would regret their decision when Nigerians head to the polls in 2027.
Speaking in Kano during his 69th birthday celebration, Kwankwaso said the party remains strong and unshaken despite the exit of some members.
He noted that those who left the NNPP had chosen to betray the movement, insisting that “our political project will continue to punish betrayal.”
The former presidential candidate said anyone who believes they can defect and still win elections in Kano is deceiving themselves.
“At this point in time, if anyone thinks he can cross over and still come to Kano to win an election, such a person is only deceiving himself,” he warned. “Our movement will continue to take action against those who betray it.”
Kwankwaso stressed that his brand of politics is guided by principles, not bitterness. “We don’t set out to fight anyone,” he explained. “Whoever you see leaving us either did so voluntarily or went too far in misconduct. If you insult or disrespect us publicly, knowing fully well your past, we have no option but to act.”
Addressing rumours of a rift between him and Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Kwankwaso dismissed the claims, describing them as false. “There is no problem between me and Governor Abba,” he said. “We gave him the opportunity to perform, and he is doing his best. It is just that some mischievous individuals are trying to create division where there is none.”
He clarified that Governor Yusuf was chosen based on loyalty and competence. “We carefully examined the options and found him most qualified as far back as 2019,” Kwankwaso added.
“We gave him the chance to deliver, and we continue to support him. Those claiming that I control contracts or run the government are only being mischievous. In due time, the truth will come out.”
Speaking on the next general elections, Kwankwaso expressed optimism that 2027 would be different. He said that “those making noise about defeating us in 2027 are living in denial,” adding that young Nigerians are now more politically aware and ready to defend their votes.
The NNPP leader assured that the Kwankwasiyya movement would continue to play a major role in shaping Nigeria’s political future.
“We are confident of victory because our movement is people-oriented and based on service,” he said. “Those who betrayed the cause will see the result of their actions at the polls.”
Nevertheless, Kwankwaso has remained one of the most influential political figures in Northern Nigeria, with a loyal following that has continued to grow beyond Kano State.
The article was originally published on Politics Nigeria.
