Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a former Governor of Kano State, has announced his resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) ahead of planned defections to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Kwankwaso, who was the party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, said his decision to dump NNPP was due to the need for political realignment.

The former governor disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday

He said, “I wish to formally announce my resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) with immediate effect.”

While describing his exit as a difficult decision, Kwankwaso said he has found it necessary to identify with another political platform that offers the best opportunity to effectively change the nation

“As a committed and bonafide member of the party, this was not an easy decision to make. However, considering the current trajectory of the nation’s political landscape, which calls for strategic realignment, I have found it necessary to identify with another political platform that offers the best opportunity to effectively change the nation,” he said.

Kwankwaso expressed appreciation to the party leadership, including the National Chairman, Ajuji Ahmed, and other organs of the party for their support during his time.

“I extend my deepest appreciation to the National Chairman, Ajuji Ahmed and the entire National Working Committee for their steadfast support throughout my time. I also thank the Board of Trustees, the National Executive Committee, and all levels of leadership across the party — from the ward to the state level,” he stated.

He also acknowledged members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and party supporters for their commitment.

Kwankwasiyya Movement’s directive

Tribune Online reports that ahead of defection of its National Leader, the Kwankwasiyya Movement has directed its members to join the ADC.

The Movement, in a statement on Saturday by its spokesperson, Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, said Senator Kwankwaso, has concluded plans to join the coalition seeking to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

According to the statement, the former Kano State governor will dump the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday.

“The Kwankwasiyya Movement wishes to formally inform all its members across Nigeria and the general public that our Supreme Leader Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has concluded all necessary arrangements to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

“In furtherance of this decision, he will officially register with the party on Monday, 30th March 2026, at his residence, Gidan Kwankwasiyya, Miller Road, Kano, by 12pm.

“Consequently, all members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement are hereby directed to proceed and register with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in their respective wards, local government areas, and states immediately thereafter. Members are also encouraged to fully engage in all party activities and contribute actively toward the growth, development, and success of the party at all levels,” the statement said. (Sunday Tribune)