The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) stormed Kano’s political scene in 2023, propelled by grassroots support and the influence of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s Kwankwasiyya movement.
However, less than two years later, internal divisions and governance challenges are raising concerns about the party’s ability to maintain its hold on Kano ahead of the 2027 elections.
Suspension of Lawmakers Sparks Controversy
On Monday, the NNPP’s Kano chapter announced the suspension of Senator Kawu Sumaila (Kano South) and three House of Representatives members—Aliyu Madaki (Dala Federal Constituency), Sani Rogo (Rogo Federal Constituency), and Kabiru Rurum (Rano, Kibiya, Bunkure Federal Constituency).
State party chairman Hashimu Dungurawa accused them of disloyalty and failing to participate in key party activities, including events organized by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and Kwankwaso.
He claimed their actions, such as associating with APC figures at private events, signaled a lack of commitment to the NNPP.
In response, the suspended lawmakers dismissed the move as illegitimate, accusing Kwankwaso of turning the NNPP into his personal empire.
They labeled Dungurawa a political puppet, arguing that the decision was a strategy to silence internal dissent.
National Leadership Disputes Suspension
The NNPP’s national leadership also rejected the suspension. National Publicity Secretary Dr. Oginni Olaposi described the action as “null and void,” stating that the Kwankwasiyya faction no longer had formal ties to the party.
He cited a court ruling that recognized the Board of Trustees, led by Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, as the legitimate authority within the NNPP.
Analysts Weigh In: NNPP’s Future in Kano
Political analyst Abba Gwale highlighted the growing divide within the party. He noted that Kano’s political landscape was shifting, with factions led by Dungurawa and Zarewa battling for control.
According to him, unresolved internal conflicts could weaken the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Despite the turmoil, Gwale acknowledged that NNPP still holds significant support in Kano due to the Kwankwasiyya movement and the administration’s infrastructural efforts.
However, he warned that defections to the APC and internal dissatisfaction could threaten the party’s stability.
Can APC Reclaim Kano in 2027?
With the APC actively positioning itself for a comeback, analysts believe the opposition remains a strong force in Kano.
The party, led by figures like Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, is leveraging federal support to regain influence.
Gwale pointed out that political dynamics remain unpredictable, but the APC is working hard to reclaim the state.
He also noted that the defection of government officials to the opposition signals deeper cracks within the NNPP.
A resident, Auwal Sumaila, shared his concerns, stating that many NNPP supporters are loyal to individual politicians rather than the party itself.
“If Kawu Sumaila leaves, his followers will leave with him,” he said.
Meanwhile, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje recently hinted at more defections from the NNPP, reinforcing the party’s strategy to win back Kano.
House of Representatives member Alhassan Ado Doguwa even vowed that the APC would defeat the NNPP in Kano before 1 p.m. on election day in 2027.
Final Thoughts
With tensions rising and the 2027 elections approaching, the NNPP faces an uphill battle to maintain its grip on Kano.
Whether the party can resolve its internal conflicts or succumb to the growing influence of the APC remains to be seen.
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