Dr. Usman Tijjani Shehu, a leading diaspora figure in the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and supporter of the Kwankwasiyya movement, has left the party to rejoin the All Progressives Congress (APC). He announced the move after what he described as extensive consultations with political allies, supporters, and stakeholders in Nigeria and abroad. Dr. Shehu previously belonged to the APC before aligning with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso during his shift to the NNPP. He cited evolving political dynamics and personal conviction as key factors behind his decision to return to the ruling party.
Dr. Shehu formally declared his defection at an event in Kano State, where he reaffirmed his allegiance to the APC and expressed confidence in its continued leadership under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He emphasized unity within the party and called on other aggrieved members to consider dialogue and reconciliation. His return marks a notable shift in the NNPP's diaspora engagement, particularly among Kwankwaso's international backers.
Dr. Usman Tijjani Shehu's move from NNPP back to APC signals a weakening in Kwankwaso's hold on his diaspora support base. With Shehu citing internal consultations and shifting loyalties, the defection could encourage similar moves by other Kwankwasiyya-aligned figures abroad. This development may affect the NNPP's fundraising and mobilization strength outside Nigeria. For Nigerian politics, it reflects the ongoing realignment of regional and personal allegiances in the current administration's second year.
