KANO — Former Kano State Governor and leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has officially signaled his intention to join the emerging opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a direct rejection of the ruling party, Kwankwaso stated that he would rather align with a new platform than return to a party he claims has failed the nation. “Instead of calling on us to lead people into the APC, we would rather join the ADC, a new party, than join a party that has destroyed Nigeria,” he told supporters in Kano.
The Fallout with APC
The declaration marks a definitive end to weeks of high-stakes negotiations between Kwankwaso and the All Progressives Congress (APC). Reports indicate that the talks collapsed after the APC leadership rejected Kwankwaso’s “unrealistic” demands, which allegedly included a guaranteed vice-presidential slot and significant control over the party’s future succession plans for 2031.
The rift was further widened by the recent defection of Kwankwaso’s protégé, Governor Abba Yusuf, who resigned from the NNPP on January 23 to join the APC. Kwankwaso branded the governor’s move a “betrayal” and has since declared the date “World Betrayal Day.”
Building a “Third Force”
By moving toward the ADC, Kwankwaso joins other heavyweights—including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Governor Peter Obi—who are attempting to consolidate opposition strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The ADC has recently undergone a massive restructuring to accommodate these figures, appointing former Senate President David Mark as its National Chairman and Chief John Odigie-Oyegun to lead its policy and manifesto committee.
Terms for an Alliance
Despite his interest in the coalition, Kwankwaso has maintained a strict condition for any final merger: his political weight must be recognized with a presidential or vice-presidential ticket.
“We remain open to genuine partnerships with any party willing to honor the agreement and treat us as equal partners,” he emphasized, noting that the Kwankwasiyya movement remains a formidable force in Northern Nigeria that cannot be ignored.
