By Ayo Kehinde
Former Kano State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has formally resigned from the party, declaring that he is moving to another political platform in what he described as a strategic realignment within Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
In his resignation letter dated March 29, 2026, Kwankwaso announced: “I wish to formally announce my resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) with immediate effect.”
He expressed gratitude for his role in the party, stating: “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.”
Describing the decision as painful, he noted: “As a committed and bona fide member of the party, this was not an easy decision to make.”
Kwankwaso explained that his departure was driven by broader political considerations, saying: “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 appreciated the leadership of the NNPP, adding: “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 also thanked the party’s Board of Trustees, National Executive Committee, and members at all levels, as well as supporters of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, for their loyalty and commitment.
Kwankwaso concluded his resignation message on a reconciliatory note, stating: “We shall continue to collaborate and work together towards charting a better and more prosperous future for our dear nation.”
In a swift political development, the Kwankwasiyya Movement confirmed that its leader has concluded arrangements to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
According to a statement by the movement’s spokesperson, Dr. Muhammad Habibu Sale Mailemo, “We wish to formally inform all our members across Nigeria and the general public that our Leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has concluded all necessary arrangements to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).”
He added that Kwankwaso will be formally received into the party on Monday, stating: “Kwankwaso will officially register with the party at his residence, Gidan Kwankwasiyya, Miller Road, Kano, by 12 noon.
The statement further directed supporters nationwide: “All members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement are hereby directed to proceed and register with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in their respective wards, local government areas, and states immediately thereafter.”
It urged active participation in party affairs, noting: “Members are also encouraged to fully engage in all party activities and contribute actively toward the growth, development, and success of the party at all levels.”
The movement described the decision as strategic and value-driven, stating: “This strategic decision, as always, has been taken in the best interest of the movement, our state, and the nation at large.” It added that the move reflects commitment to democratic principles: “It reflects our unwavering commitment to the advancement of democratic values, good governance, and the collective aspirations of the people.”
Reaffirming its ideology, the statement concluded: “We emphasize that democracy must be protected, and the will of the people must always be respected. The Kwankwasiyya Movement remains resolute, united, and committed to building a better and more inclusive Nigeria.”
Kwankwaso’s exit from the NNPP and anticipated formal entry into the ADC is expected to trigger significant realignments within Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
