What’s Happening?
The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has issued a stern warning to the Kwankwasiya Movement and The National Movement (TNM), distancing itself from the groups and demanding they stop claiming affiliation with the party. In a letter dated March 20, 2025, the NNPP clarified that its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the two groups ended in 2023 and should no longer be referenced.
The letter, addressed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Inspector General of Police (IGP), specifically called out Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso (leader of Kwankwasiya) and Elder Buba Galadima (leader of TNM), urging them to cease identifying with the NNPP.
Why This Matters
The NNPP’s decision marks a significant shift in its political alliances and signals a breakdown in its relationship with the Kwankwasiya and TNM groups. These groups played a pivotal role in the NNPP’s 2023 presidential campaign, with Kwankwaso running as the party’s candidate. However, after the election, the NNPP terminated its agreement with the groups in July 2023, citing the need to return to its original structure and leadership.
Despite this, Kwankwasiya and TNM have continued to associate themselves with the NNPP, leading to internal conflicts and the expulsion of some members for anti-party activities. The NNPP’s latest move aims to put an end to this confusion and reaffirm its independence.
The Letter: A Clear Message
The NNPP’s letter, signed by Dr. Boniface Aniebonam (Founder and Chairman of the NNPP Board of Trustees) and Dr. Agbo Major (National Chairman), left no room for ambiguity. It stated:
“You must forthwith desist from this fraudulent and heinous posturing… The structure and leadership of NNPP have, since July 28, 2023, reverted to its original founders.”
This strong language underscores the party’s determination to reclaim its identity and distance itself from the Kwankwasiya and TNM groups.
A Look Back: The 2023 Alliance
The NNPP’s partnership with Kwankwasiya and TNM was initially seen as a strategic move to strengthen its position ahead of the 2023 presidential election. Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, a prominent political figure and leader of the Kwankwasiya Movement, brought significant visibility and support to the NNPP during the campaign.
However, the alliance was always intended to be temporary. After the election, the NNPP decided to part ways, citing the need to return to its roots and focus on its original mission and values.
The Fallout: Expulsions and Internal Strife
Since the termination of the MoU, tensions between the NNPP and the Kwankwasiya/TNM groups have escalated. The NNPP has expelled several members for anti-party activities, accusing them of undermining the party’s leadership and objectives.
This latest letter is a clear attempt to draw a line in the sand and prevent further confusion about the party’s structure and leadership.
Read also: NNPP Criticizes APC Over Education and Healthcare Failures, Calls for Urgent Reforms
What’s Next?
The NNPP’s decision to publicly distance itself from Kwankwasiya and TNM could have significant implications for Nigeria’s political landscape. Key developments to watch include:
- Kwankwasiya and TNM’s Response: How will these groups react to the NNPP’s warning? Will they comply, or will they challenge the party’s decision?
- Impact on NNPP’s Future: Can the NNPP rebuild its identity and regain the trust of its members and supporters?
- Political Realignments: Will this move lead to new alliances or further fragmentation within Nigeria’s political parties?
Key Takeaways
- The NNPP has officially cut ties with the Kwankwasiya Movement and TNM, warning them to stop claiming affiliation.
- The party’s MoU with the groups ended in July 2023, and it has since reverted to its original structure and leadership.
- The NNPP’s letter to INEC and the IGP underscores its determination to reclaim its identity and prevent further confusion.
- This development signals a breakdown in the NNPP’s relationship with Kwankwasiya and TNM, which played a key role in its 2023 campaign.
