Former Kano State Governor and leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has warned those who have abandoned the NNPP or the Kwankwasiyya movement that they will face political consequences in the 2027 general elections.
According to a BBC Hausa report monitored by our correspondent in Kaduna, Kwankwaso issued the warning in Kano during activities marking his 69th birthday celebrations.
Speaking during an interview with BBC Hausa Service shortly after meeting with journalists, the NNPP’s 2023 presidential candidate said those leaving the movement were doing so at their own peril, stressing that their political project would not condone betrayal.
“At this point in time, if anyone thinks he can cross over and still come to Kano to win an election, such a person is only deceiving himself,” Kwankwaso declared. “Our movement will continue to take action against those who betray it.”
He explained that his political philosophy was not driven by enmity but rooted in principles and loyalty.
“We don’t set out to fight anyone,” he said. “Whoever you see leaving us either did so voluntarily or went too far in misconduct. If you insult or disrespect us publicly, knowing fully well your past, we have no option but to act.”
Addressing reports of friction between him and the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, Kwankwaso dismissed such claims, insisting that there was no rift between them or among key members of the state government.
“There is no problem between me and Governor Abba,” he said. “We gave him the opportunity to perform, and he is doing his best. It is just that some mischievous individuals are trying to create division where there is none.”
Kwankwaso explained that Governor Yusuf was chosen based on merit and loyalty, noting that he had been considered the most qualified candidate since 2019.
“We carefully examined the options and found him most qualified,” he revealed. “We gave him the chance to deliver, and we continue to support him. Those claiming that I control contracts or run the government are only being mischievous. In due time, the truth will come out.”
On the upcoming 2027 elections, Kwankwaso expressed confidence that the process would be more transparent than previous ones, adding that the political awareness of Nigerian youths had changed the game.
“Those making noise about defeating us in 2027 are living in denial,” he said. “Things have changed — young people are now more politically aware. The coming election will not be like previous ones where money determined everything. The people now know better.”
Kwankwaso reaffirmed his belief that the NNPP and the Kwankwasiyya movement would remain a dominant political force in Nigeria, particularly in the North, ahead of 2027.
“We are confident of victory because our movement is people-oriented and based on service,” he concluded. “Those who betrayed the cause will see the result of their actions at the polls.”
