The political landscape in Nigeria is set for a significant shift as Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has laid down a major condition for any potential defection ahead of the 2027 general elections. The former governor of Kano State declared that he would only consider joining another political party if he is offered either the presidential or vice-presidential ticket.
Presidential Ambition as Non-Negotiable Condition
Addressing supporters at his residence in Kano, Kwankwaso reflected on his political career spanning over four decades. He revealed that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) had previously extended an invitation for him to join their ranks. However, he firmly rejected the offer, citing the absence of a clear and concrete proposal that would benefit both him and his extensive political structure, known as the Kwankwasiyya movement.
"We told them that we agree to go with you, but what will you give me? Appointments? How many? Which one among them will fit me, which I will accept?" Kwankwaso questioned. He emphasised that his supporters nationwide would only endorse a defection if it guaranteed him one of the top two positions on the ballot in 2027.
Condemnation of Governor Abba Yusuf's Planned Move
In a surprising twist, Kwankwaso expressed deep disappointment and shock at reports that Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, is planning to defect to the APC. He described the governor's alleged intention as a profound betrayal of trust and the collective sacrifice made to secure the NNPP's victory in the state.
Kwankwaso lamented that the governor neither consulted him nor provided any convincing reason for such a move. "After everything we did to rescue Kano from Ganduje and the APC, you have now handed the governorship back to him free of charge," he stated, urging his supporters to remain calm and prayerful. He instructed them to convey a clear message to the governor's camp: "Tell them to stop."
Reaffirmation of NNPP's Ideology and Future Plans
Despite the swirling defection rumours, Kwankwaso reaffirmed the NNPP's commitment to its core political ideology. He highlighted that Kwankwasiyya is rooted in supporting the poor and empowering youth through job creation, education, economic growth, healthcare improvement, and agricultural development.
He stressed the importance of unity within Kano State and the party to ensure electoral success in future polls. "This time it is a national issue, and Kano State must be united so that we can win again in the next elections," Kwankwaso added, indicating a strategic focus beyond immediate defection talks.
This development follows earlier reports that Kwankwaso was in talks with the APC and had demanded the vice-presidential slot in the 2023 election. While recent speculation suggested a potential move to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a communique from a Kwankwasiyya movement meeting on January 2, 2026, denied any plans by the group or its leader to join another party. The communique was signed by the NNPP's national legal adviser, Magaji Mato.
The political dynamics in Kano and at the national level remain fluid, with Kwankwaso's firm conditions setting a high bar for any realignment of forces as the country gradually approaches the 2027 election cycle.
