Thousands of members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State have defected to the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), as confirmed by the former presidential candidate of the NNPP and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
In what appears to be a major political gain for the party ahead of next general elections, Kwankwaso announced the receipt of the opposition members on Friday via his official handle on 𝕏.
He said the defection was a testimony to the growing strength of the NNPP and the credibility of its leadership both at the state and national levels.
“Yesterday was a momentous occasion, as I received thousands of defectors from the All Progressives Congress (APC) into the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP),” Kwankwaso wrote, sharing details of the defection which took place at his residence in Kano on Thursday.
The former Kano State governor assured the defectors of fairness and full inclusion within the NNPP, stressing that no one would be marginalised.
“I welcomed the new members into our party and I promised them equitable treatment and cooperation,” he said.
Kwankwaso, whose influence remains strong in Kano’s political landscape, noted that the party’s inclusive style of leadership and progressive agenda continue to attract members from rival parties.
Kwankwaso added that the “distinguished leadership style in Kano” was a major factor drawing political actors into the NNPP fold. He urged others who are still undecided to make the switch without delay.
“Our political leadership keeps attracting more people into our fold, and I encourage those considering joining to do so without any hesitation,” he wrote.
The mass defection is expected to boost the NNPP’s political capital in Kano, a state regarded as one of Nigeria’s major political strongholds.