Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in Kano State, Hashimu Sulaiman Dungurawa, has said the All Progressives Congress (APC) lacks political strength to win the 2027 election without relying on the influence of Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

Speaking during a press briefing at the NNPP state headquarters, Dungurawa said the ruling APC – both in Kano and at the national level— had “lost focus and direction,” which he argued explained their continuous overtures to Kwankwaso.

“These APC people are weak and confused. They know without Kwankwaso, they will not win in 2027,” he said. “They keep telling the public they are in talks with him. They need him. But he is only concerned about the welfare of Nigerians.

He, however, noted that reconciliation in politics was always possible, insisting that Kwankwaso’s recent encounters with political figures were coincidental and not tied to any alliance talks.

Responding to questions on why the NNPP presidential candidate polled around 500,000 votes in Kano in 2023 despite claims of deeper popularity, Dungurawa said the party was only seven months old at the time.

“The logo was not clearly printed on the ballot, awareness was low, and the party was new. Yet we won seats in Kano, Jigawa, Taraba, and Bauchi,” he said, adding that the party’s redesigned logo and wider acceptance would make 2027 “a different story.”

Dungurawa also defended the party’s internal strength ahead of its upcoming congresses, saying most executives would retain their positions in line with the NNPP constitution.

“Our constitution allows executives to serve two terms unless they defect, die, or face disciplinary issues. We believe in continuity and loyalty,” he said.

He said by-elections will hold next month to replace three councillors who died in Garin, Dala, and Doguwa LGAs.

The NNPP chairman praised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s 2026 budget, describing its focus on education and agriculture as “unprecedented,” and credited the administration for “visible infrastructural transformation” across Kano.

Dungurawa also took aim at former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, accusing his administration of neglecting education, scholarships, and pension obligations.

On recent defections, he said only one federal lawmaker voluntarily left the party, adding that “others had been suspended before exiting.”

“We are not worried. The party does not need people with difficult character. NNPP is like a royal suite—some may go to a standard room, but they will eventually realise the difference,” he said.

He further dismissed reports that a former civil servant, Jamilu Kabir Bichi, had left the party, arguing that “he was never NNPP in the first place.”

Dungurawa urged party members to remain united and prepare for what he described as a “stronger and more strategic” NNPP ahead of 2027. (Daily Trust)