By John Umeh
Former Kano State governor and 2023 Presidential Candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has sent a strong political signal to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking to a crowd of loyalists and party faithful at his residence in Kano, Kwankwaso declared that any move to lure him back into the APC fold would only succeed if clear and binding agreements are reached—agreements that safeguard the interests of his party and the political movement he leads, the Kwankwasiyya.
Kwankwaso, who left the APC after what he described as years of marginalization, recalled the sacrifices he and his supporters made in helping to establish the ruling party. According to him, they were among those who endured untold harassment and persecution from security agencies during the battle to unseat the previous administration, yet were pushed aside once power was achieved.
“We were among the founding fathers of the APC. We suffered, we sacrificed, and we put everything on the line. But when the time came to enjoy the fruits of our labour, we were sidelined simply because we did not belong to the original core faction. That mistake cannot repeat itself,” Kwankwaso said.
A Political Movement Too Large to Ignore
In his remarks, Kwankwaso stressed that the NNPP and Kwankwasiyya movement have grown into a formidable force that cannot be brushed aside in Nigeria’s political equation. He noted that in virtually every state of the federation, NNPP has strong structures, gubernatorial candidates, and senatorial flagbearers who represent the interest of millions of Nigerians.
“No state in this country today where you will not find Kwankwasiyya. From governors to senators, to members of the House of Representatives and grassroots leaders—we are everywhere. So if anyone thinks they can approach us with the intention of using us and later discarding us, they must know that era has passed,” he declared, drawing thunderous applause from his supporters.
The former Defence Minister emphasized that any alliance—whether with APC or even the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—must be founded on sincerity, fairness, and public transparency. He insisted that written agreements should be made public to avoid betrayal and ensure accountability.
Not in a Hurry to Leave NNPP
Kwankwaso also clarified that he and his loyalists are not desperate to jump ship. Instead, he argued that the NNPP has brought them peace of mind, political relevance, and a growing base of Nigerians who believe in their vision of change.
“We are not in a hurry to leave NNPP. We are enjoying our space, we are growing, and Nigerians are watching us. But if anyone desires an alliance, let it be one that will not betray us like before. Let there be written terms, let there be transparency, and let the people of Nigeria know what we are agreeing upon. Only then can we talk,” he said.
The Bigger Picture: 2027 in Focus
Analysts say Kwankwaso’s conditions reflect the growing importance of political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections. With APC facing internal divisions and the opposition PDP struggling to reposition itself, Kwankwaso’s NNPP may prove to be the kingmaker in Nigeria’s next power struggle.
His warning also serves as a reminder of the unresolved grievances that continue to haunt APC’s coalition. By demanding respect and recognition for his movement, Kwankwaso is signaling that the days of silent compromise are over. For him, politics is no longer just about power—it is about dignity, trust, and long-term inclusion.
As the political climate heats up, one thing is clear: Kwankwaso’s voice cannot be ignored. Whether or not APC can meet his terms remains to be seen, but his words have already reshaped the conversation around alliances and loyalty in Nigerian politics.
