Rabiu Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano, has resigned his membership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) — the platform on which he ran for president in the 2023 poll.
Kwankwaso announced he is leaving the NNPP in a statement issued on Sunday.
The ex-defence minister said his decision takes immediate effect.
Kwankwaso, who was national leader of the NNPP, said the decision to quit was not an easy one and thanked the party for the opportunity to serve.
“I wish to formally announce my resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) with immediate effect,” he said.
“I seize this opportunity to express my profound gratitude for the honour and privilege of serving as the Party’s National Leader and its Presidential Candidate in the 2023 General Elections.
“As a committed and bonafide member of the party, this was not an easy decision to make.”
Kwankwaso said the current political climate in the country left him with no other choice.
He said he would align with another political platform that offers an opportunity to change the nation’s trajectory.
“However, considering the current trajectory of the nation’s political landscape, which calls for strategic realignment, I have found it necessary to identify with another political platform that offers the best opportunity to effectively change the nation,” he said.
Kwankwaso thanked Ajuji Ahmed, national chairman of the party, and members of the national working committee (NWC).
He also appreciated members of the board of trustees and the national executive committee.
Kwankwaso thanked party leaders across all levels, including ward and state structures.
He also acknowledged supporters of the Kwankwasiyya movement.
“I extend my deepest appreciation to the National Chairman, Ajuji Ahmed and the entire National Working Committee for their steadfast support throughout my time,” he said.
“I also thank the Board of Trustees, the National Executive Committee, and all levels of leadership across the party — from the ward to the state level, as well as the legacy members of the party and all followers of the Kwankwasiyya Movement for their dedication and commitment to our shared mission.”
Kwankwaso said he remains committed to working with political stakeholders towards a better future for Nigeria.
“We shall continue to collaborate and work together towards charting a better and more prosperous future for our dear nation,” he said.
On Saturday, the Kwankwasiyya movement shared that Kwankwaso will join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday.
Kwankwaso held meetings with Kano ADC leaders and Rauf Aregbesola, national secretary of the ADC, last week.
