Leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and Presidential Candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has lambasted politicians who defect to rival parties after benefiting from the mandate of the people, describing such actions as the “greatest political sin” in a democracy.
Kwankwaso made the statement on Friday while receiving a fresh wave of defectors from Takai Local Government Area of Kano South into the NNPP at his residence on Miller Road, Kano.
His comments come amid a series of high-profile defections from the NNPP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila and Hon. Kabiru Alhassan Rurum, who represents Rano, Kibiya, and Bunkure Federal Constituency.
Reflecting on the party’s experiences in past elections, Kwankwaso said each contest, particularly the 2019 and 2023 general elections, had served as a learning opportunity that strengthened the movement.
“This movement is for the people. It is not about money. Some people collected spaghetti and N2,000 to elect someone. But in Kano, the poor stood firm. If it had been left to those selling their votes, the NNPP wouldn’t have won,” he said.
Kwankwaso criticized elected officials who, after gaining office with the backing of the masses, turn around to join opposing political parties.
“This is the highest form of betrayal in a democratic setting. When vulnerable people vote for you and you turn around to join their oppressors, it is a political sin of the highest order,” he said.
The former Minister of Defence issued a stern warning to those seeking to undermine the Kwankwasiyya movement, describing it as a formidable force that cannot be easily shaken.
“Fighting the Kwankwasiyya movement is a grave mistake. One may not understand until he engages in that fight—and then he’ll realize how tough it is,” he added.
Kwankwaso urged his supporters to remain resolute and continue mobilizing at the grassroots, stressing that the movement’s strength lies in its commitment to social justice and improving the lives of the poor.
“Whether you got an appointment or not, whether you got a contract or not, we are all in this for the right reasons. The poor now understand everything, and that is our strength,” he concluded.
He congratulated the new members for joining the NNPP and expressed confidence that the party would continue to grow across Nigeria.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate