NNPP Denies Kwankwaso’s Defection to APC, Says Coalition Still an Option

The National Chairman of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), Ajuji Ahmed, has dismissed speculations that the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is preparing to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking on Tuesday during an interview on Prime Time, an Arise Television programme, Ahmed clarified that Kwankwaso’s recent remarks in Kano were misinterpreted.

He stressed that the NNPP remains open to exploring different political strategies, including coalitions, ahead of future elections.

“I don’t think so. I don’t think what he said indicated in any way that he is defecting or about to defect,” Ahmed said. “NNPP has a longstanding position that we have options. One of the options is probably what he referred to.

Another option is to go into coalition with any party that shares our philosophy and objectives. The third option is to do it alone by ourselves. These options are still on the table.”

Providing further clarification, the NNPP Chairman explained that Kwankwaso’s comment in Kano was merely highlighting one of those possibilities, not a declaration of intent to join the APC.

“Kwankwaso only said that if the APC invites his attention, he will give them the attention on the condition that they offer a concrete guarantee that the interests of his party members will be taken care of, instead of just him being talked to,” Ahmed added.

The clarification comes amid growing speculation about possible realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Kwankwaso seen by many as a major political figure whose next move could reshape alliances within Nigeria’s political landscape.