Panic In High Places: NNPP Chairman Breaks Silence On Kwankwaso’s Alleged Defection

The Kano State Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Suleiman Hashimu Dungurawa, has questioned the growing anxiety among Nigerian politicians over rumors that the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, may defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition.

Speaking to journalists in Kano on Monday, Dungurawa dismissed the speculation, firmly stating that Kwankwaso is not decamping to the ADC or any other political party.

He emphasized that Kwankwaso is a strategic leader who doesn’t make hasty decisions, saying:
“Kwankwaso is not the type of politician who acts without careful thought. He remains the political leader of Northern Nigeria, and many politicians in the region look up to him. It’s misleading and premature to suggest he’s leaving the NNPP.”

Dungurawa questioned the nervous reactions of some political figures:
“Why are Nigerian politicians panicking over Kwankwaso’s every move? They need to relax. The time for decisions hasn’t come. We’re strategic thinkers who don’t act without thorough consideration.”

Addressing Kwankwaso’s recent meetings with figures from other political camps, Dungurawa explained:
“He holds a PhD in political science—do you expect him to isolate himself? Engaging with others is part of politics. It’s normal and doesn’t imply defection.”

He also criticized so-called supporters who are anxious about Kwankwaso’s political direction:
“Those who are jittery about his next move are not true followers. Real supporters know Kwankwaso never makes any major decisions without first consulting even grassroots members, down to ward-level loyalists.”