Kwankwaso
Bolatito Mercy
Rabiu Kwankwaso, the former Governor of Kano State and 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has resigned from the party, citing a need for “strategic realignment” in Nigeria’s political landscape. This move comes ahead of his expected defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Kwankwaso’s resignation was announced in a statement on Sunday, March 29, 2026, where he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the NNPP’s national leader and presidential candidate. He stated that identifying with another platform would offer a better chance to drive national change.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement, a group supporting Kwankwaso, confirmed that he would officially join the ADC on Monday, March 30, 2026, at his residence in Kano. The movement has directed its members to register with the ADC and support the party’s activities.
Kwankwaso’s decision has sparked speculation about potential alliances, including a possible presidential ticket with Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party candidate. The NNPP founder, Boniface Aniebonam, stated that the party is not following Kwankwaso to the ADC and would not accept him back if he fails in his new party.
Aniebonam emphasized that most NNPP members in Kano have joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), and only Kwankwaso’s loyalists might follow him to the ADC. The NNPP is preparing for the 2027 presidential elections and will not rely on Kwankwaso’s new party.
Kwankwaso’s move is seen as a significant realignment in Nigerian politics, potentially reshaping alliances ahead of the 2027 elections. The ADC has welcomed Kwankwaso, expecting his membership to strengthen the opposition against the ruling APC.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar met with Kwankwaso on Saturday, March 28, 2026, amid speculation about his defection. The meeting was described as a courtesy visit, with discussions on the nation’s state.The implications of Kwankwaso’s defection are still unfolding, but it’s clear that Nigerian politics is in for an interesting ride.
