Alhaji Abass Onilewura, a prominent member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has placed blame on former presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso for the loss of Yusuf Abba, the Kano governor, at the State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal….CONTINUE READING
The tribunal recently invalidated Abba’s election victory and declared Nasir Gawuna of the APC as the winner of the March 18 gubernatorial poll.
Additionally, the tribunal revoked the Certificate of Return previously awarded to Abba by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
In his response to the tribunal’s judgment, Onilewura issued a statement on Thursday, asserting that Kwankwaso played a role in undermining the NNPP and striking a deal with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to secure a ministerial appointment in the government led by President Bola Tinubu.
Onilewura emphasized that Kwankwaso’s alleged involvement in activities contrary to the NNPP’s interests contributed to the significant setback suffered by the party with the tribunal’s decision in Kano.
According to the statement: “This loss is a significant setback for us in NNPP, and it occurred solely because of Kwankwaso’s selfishness in selling the party to the highest bidder.
While we await the Certified True Copy of the Tribunal judgment, it is crucial for the world to understand that this situation could have been avoided if Kwankwaso had followed due process and awarded the party’s ticket to the most qualified candidate.”
“Our investigation has also revealed that Kwankwaso’s ongoing engagement with the APC created opportunities for them to identify weaknesses that were later exploited against the Kano governor to secure victory for the opposition.”
“It is regrettable that individuals like us worked tirelessly to elevate the party to its current status, only for someone like Kwankwaso to nullify all our efforts. We are pleased that he has been expelled from this esteemed party.”
“We also take this opportunity to caution him to steer clear of NNPP. We do not want betrayal within our party, and we will take every reasonable measure to protect our party from hijackers who prioritize personal gain.”
“I also urge our members nationwide to remain calm because a new leadership has assumed control of the party, and we will do everything in our power to restore our party’s honor. NNPP will emerge as a robust voice and opposition that stands for justice, equity, and good governance.”
