Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the 2023 elections, has said that the party open to alliances with other political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa.
Kwankwaso satted this in an interview with BBC Hausa.
Former governor of Kano State emphasised that the NNPP is willing to work with any party that shares their ideals of prioritising the welfare of the common man.
- Cameroon opposition leader, Tchiroma, declares self winner of presidential poll
- BREAKING: Tinubu Nominates New Minister
Kwankwaso had declared that his party was open to joining the APC, but on conditions that such development must spell out tangible benefits for the NNPP.
He said, “If you are asking us to join APC, you must tell us what NNPP will gain. We have gubernatorial candidates in all the states and full structures nationwide. What will you offer them if we join?”
But speaking with BBC, Kwankwaso reiterated that any alliance with political parties or individuals must be based on shared ideals that will guarantee improved quality of life of Nigerians.
According to him, the forthcoming general elections in 2027 would be fiercely contested and much tougher as, according to him, Nigerians are now more involved, concerned and better informed.
He said, “We’re ready for anyone, whether it is the APC, PDP, ADC, Jonathan, or Peter Obi. If we are satisfied with their competence, we will join forces to achieve success. What we are looking for are competent leaders with integrity.
“The key thing is that whoever we ally with, be it the APC or another party, must be committed to the needs of Nigerians. If they fail to meet our expectations, we would not continue with them.
“What we are asking for is that the common people should benefit, that the masses should be free, the youth educated and security improved. Our people are being killed in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, parts of Kaduna, and other states.
“The victims are ordinary citizens, because the elites have fled to Abuja, where they are living in luxury. Some of them, like members of the House of Representatives, senators and ministers, have no concern other than enriching themselves, buying big houses, and flaunting expensive cars. They are appointed to positions and act as if they are untouchable, but I am confident that Allah will judge them accordingly.
“I believe the 2027 elections will be much tougher. Unlike before, people are now more involved and more concerned. Everyone is looking for a way out because of the country’s situation. Thanks to radio and social media, the masses are now informed. Everyone is trying to secure a better future for themselves, their families and their loved ones.
“This time, nobody would come on election day asking for money to cast their votes. You may probably see new things unfold; things that have never happened before in Nigeria’s electoral history.
“There is no crisis in our party, the NNPP. They have taken us to court over a thousand times but have not succeeded. Up till now, they are still using the old logo. So, it is like members of the APC suddenly claiming to belong to ACN or CPC. How can that be? Check the INEC portal and see for yourself who is recognised. They are not real politicians.”
Asked to comment on recent moves by the National Assembly to amend the 2022 Electoral Act to provide for the conduct of presidential and governorship elections six months before the expiration of the tenure of incumbents across the country, Kwankwaso said he is ready for the election to hold anytime.
“As for me, I have no issue. If they are ready, let them come out tomorrow, we will come out too. I have no problem with that. Whether it is November or February, let the election hold anytime. All we need is some notice so we can inform and mobilise our people.
“Even now, although we don’t yet have a definite direction, remember that the NNPP itself was quite new during the last election, yet we made an impact.”
On alleged undue interference in the running of the affairs of Kano State government, Kwankwaso dismissed the claims as baseless, noting that time shall tell who is in charge.
“We did everything with the fear of God. Since the 2019 elections, we searched carefully and found that he was the best candidate. Allah has now blessed him with leadership. He is working, and we have given him the chance to do what is necessary.
“Many people have conspired and said unpleasant things, claiming I’m the one steering the government, that I handle contracts and all sorts of things. There is no need for me to respond. With time and patience, people will see for themselves who is truly in charge. What I know is that he is one of us. Even during the previous administration, we were part of it.
“Our position is simple: If he seeks our counsel or advice, we will gladly offer it. And if we notice anything wrong or harmful, we will call his attention to it. That is why people are shouting that they will defeat us or vote us out. But the truth is, the youths have become more aware.” he clarified.
