The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has dismissed the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC)'s chances in the 2027 presidential election, citing the selection of Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso as its vice-presidential candidate. In a statement issued today, NNPP Secretary-General Ogini Olaposi accused Kwankwaso of betraying the party during the 2023 presidential election, when he was the NNPP's flagbearer. Olaposi claimed Kwankwaso attempted to take control of the party from its board of trustees and caused members to leave in large numbers. He described the idea that another party could have "dashed" Kwankwaso out of the NNPP as absurd, noting that no transfer of the party's original certificate of registration occurred.
Olaposi emphasized that Kwankwaso had been given a rare opportunity to run for president on the NNPP platform, including a free ticket, which elevated his national profile. He argued that Nigerians would consider the vice-presidential candidate's background, especially since the vice president could assume office if needed. The NNPP official also dismissed the significance of large rally crowds, saying they were rented and did not translate into votes. He pointed out that Kwankwaso, despite finishing fourth in the 2023 election, now claims credit for making the NNPP popular. Olaposi further criticized Kwankwaso for referring to Peter Obi as his junior in politics while now appearing to follow him politically.
The NNPP secretary-general urged members who left the party under Kwankwaso's influence to return ahead of the 2027 elections. He called on NDC founder Seriake Dickson to activate co-founders to safeguard the party's structure from potential betrayal.
The NNPP's sharp criticism of Kwankwaso's loyalty raises questions about his political reliability in his new role with the NDC. If past conduct is any indicator, Dickson and other NDC founders may need to closely monitor internal party control mechanisms.
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