Rabiu Kwankwaso's son, Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, has officially resigned from the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) and announced his intention to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This move comes less than 24 hours after his father, former Kano Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, also defected from the NNPP to join the ADC. Mustapha made the announcement on his official Facebook page, stating that his decision was a deliberate and carefully considered move aimed at advancing good governance and socio-economic progress for Kano State and Nigeria.
Mustapha's decision to join the ADC is driven by his conviction that the party is best positioned to bring about the desired change and progress to the country, particularly to Kano State. He believes that the ADC offers a viable platform for achieving shared goals of good governance, economic prosperity, and improved well-being for all.
The resignation comes against the backdrop of shifting political alliances in Kano and across northern Nigeria. The NNPP has faced growing internal strains, particularly after the 2023 elections when Governor Abdullahi Ganduje's administration aligned with the APC and consolidated control in Kano State. Many NNPP members loyal to the Kwankwasiyya political brand have since been navigating between the APC and emerging platforms like the ADC in search of political viability for the 2027 elections.
Blueprint.ng reports that crisis had long begun when Mustapha's father, Rabiu Kwankwaso, defected to the APC in 2023 following internal disagreements within the NNPP. This move triggered a series of defections by party members loyal to the Kwankwasiyya Movement, weakening the NNPP's structure in its traditional stronghold.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement's continued drift away from the NNPP raises questions about the party's ability to hold onto its core supporters. Mustapha's decision to join the ADC suggests that the party is struggling to maintain its relevance in Kano State politics. The ADC's ability to attract high-profile entrants like the Kwankwaso family will likely influence other stakeholders and voter bases ahead of the 2027 elections. As Kano State prepares for the next electoral cycle, the ADC's prospects will be closely watched. The party's ability to capitalize on the Kwankwaso family's influence will be crucial to its success.
