Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano State and the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party, has resigned from the party with immediate effect.
In a press statement dated March 29, 2026, Kwankwaso said his decision was driven by the need for a strategic political realignment in response to shifting dynamics within Nigeria’s political landscape.
He thanked the party for the opportunity to serve as its national leader and presidential flagbearer in the 2023 general elections, noting that his departure was not taken lightly. According to him, the direction of national politics now requires aligning with a platform better positioned to deliver meaningful change.
“I wish to formally announce my resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) with immediate effect,” he stated.
Although Kwankwaso did not publicly confirm his next move, the Kwankwasiyya Movement revealed that he is expected to register with the African Democratic Congress at his residence, Gidan Kwankwasiyya in Kano, on Monday. The group also urged its members across wards and local government areas to follow suit and actively engage in the party’s activities nationwide.
Reacting to the development, NNPP founder Boniface Aniebonam said the party was not involved in Kwankwaso’s planned transition to the ADC. In a statement issued in Lagos, he emphasized that the NNPP remains stable and would not follow the former candidate into another political platform.
Aniebonam further stated that the party would not welcome Kwankwaso back in the future, adding that internal consultations are already underway in preparation for the 2027 presidential election.
In a similar vein, a memo from former NNPP national chairman Ahmed Ajuji advised party officials at all levels to remain committed to their roles and continue party activities, except for those who choose to resign and pursue other political interests.
