Fresh Twist In NNPP Crisis: INEC Recognises Agbo As National Chairman

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has updated its records to recognise Major Agbo as the National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), replacing Bala Yusuf, who had also laid claim to the party’s leadership.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The development was announced during a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, while a check of INEC’s official portal confirmed that Agbo’s name now appears as the party’s national chairman.

The electoral commission also updated the names of other members of the NNPP National Working Committee, including Olaposi Oginni as National Secretary, Prince Adetoyese Omokanye as National Treasurer, Anthony Apugo as National Financial Secretary and Asuquo Ibok as National Legal Adviser.

Leadership Dispute Takes New Turn

The latest update marks a significant development in the prolonged leadership dispute that has affected the NNPP since the 2023 general election, with rival factions contesting control of the party.

Addressing journalists after the development, Agbo described INEC’s recognition as confirmation of the legitimacy of his leadership and the beginning of a new phase for the party.

He said the successful upload of the National Working Committee under his leadership strengthened the party’s position ahead of future political activities.

Agbo also claimed the development signalled the end of internal divisions involving Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Buba Galadima, wishing both politicians well in their future political engagements.

He further expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the legal processes surrounding the leadership dispute, saying the judiciary had upheld the rule of law.

NNPP Shifts Focus to 2027 Elections

The development comes after INEC issued access codes to virtually all registered political parties to enable them upload candidates’ details to its nomination portal, with the NNPP previously excluded as a result of its unresolved leadership crisis.

Following INEC’s latest recognition, Agbo said the party has commenced preparations for the 2027 general elections.

According to him, the NNPP has begun uploading candidates to the commission’s nomination portal in line with the electoral timetable and guidelines.

He added that the party intends to field credible candidates capable of delivering good governance and national development while remaining open to Nigerians interested in joining its platform.

Agbo also urged the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity by improving intelligence gathering, strengthening collaboration among security institutions and deploying lawful measures to safeguard lives and property.

He further appealed to INEC to remain impartial and uphold the principles of free, fair and credible elections ahead of the 2027 polls, stressing that public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy depends on the independence and professionalism of the electoral body.

Yusuf Responds

Reacting to the development, Bala Yusuf confirmed that he was aware of INEC’s decision but declined to comment extensively.

He said he was travelling at the time he was contacted and would issue a detailed statement after returning to Abuja.