The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has declared that its 2023 presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, will not be allowed to run for president under its platform in the 2027 elections.
The party’s National Chairman, Dr. Agbo Major, stated this in a press release on Saturday, responding to recent remarks by Buba Galadima. Galadima had claimed Kwankwaso would remain in the NNPP and contest the 2027 presidency on its platform.
But Agbo clarified that both Kwankwaso and Galadima had long been expelled from the party for anti-party activities and no longer have any ties to the NNPP.
“Our Memorandum of Understanding with the Kwankwasiyya Movement ended shortly after the 2023 elections. Kwankwaso is no longer a member of this party and cannot return,” Agbo said.
He accused Kwankwaso of attempting to hijack the party, leading to legal battles and internal crises. “He even changed our party logo to that of the Kwankwasiyya Movement during a controversial convention, which was later overturned by the courts,” Agbo added.
The chairman said Kwankwaso is likely hoping for another free presidential ticket like he received in 2023, but emphasized that such an opportunity would not be granted again.
“Kwankwaso cannot lead any party where he is not in control. He does not have the political weight to challenge President Tinubu in 2027. His ambition, as far as the NNPP is concerned, is dead on arrival,” Agbo said.
He acknowledged that it is Kwankwaso’s constitutional right to run for office but urged him to do so outside the NNPP.
Agbo noted that the NNPP is currently in talks with other credible aspirants and will follow due process in selecting its 2027 presidential candidate.
“Going forward, our presidential ticket will not be handed out easily, especially not to anyone who betrayed the party,” he said.
The chairman urged Nigerians to disregard any statements made by Kwankwaso or his allies claiming to speak on behalf of the NNPP.
“Kwankwaso should form his own political party to pursue his ambitions. The NNPP has moved on and will not be drawn into further controversy,” Agbo concluded.