13 NNPP reps deny defecting to APC, pledge loyalty to Kwankwasiya Movement

Thirteen members of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the  house of representatives have denied defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

On Thursday, two Kano lawmakers — Abdulmumin Jibrin (Kiru/Bebeji federal constituency) and Sagir Koki (Kano Municipal federal constituency) — moved from NNPP to APC.

Subsequently, rumours swirled that all NNPP lawmakers in the lower legislative chamber are planning to join the APC.

In a joint statement, the 13 lawmakers dismissed the speculation, saying they remain loyal to the Kwankwasiya Movement, a support group of Rabiu Kwankwaso, NNPP’s 2023 presidential candidate and former governor of Kano state.

“We wish to categorically debunk these unfounded rumours and urge the general public, our supporters, and well-meaning Nigerians to disregard such misleading claims,” the statement reads.

“These rumours are nothing but the handiwork of political detractors who are threatened by the growing influence, unity, and resilience of the NNPP and the Kwankwasiya family, particularly in Kano State and across Nigeria.

“Let it be clearly understood that, as lawmakers, our constitutional responsibilities demand constructive engagement with colleagues across party lines in the interest of national development.

“Our interactions with members of other political parties should not be misconstrued as disloyalty or an indication of defection. Rather, it reflects our commitment to bipartisan cooperation to advance good governance, national unity, and progress for all Nigerians.

“We remain steadfast in our allegiance to the NNPP and the Kwankwasiya ideology, which stands for justice, equity, inclusiveness, and people-centred governance.

“No amount of misinformation or propaganda will shake our faith in the movement or in the leadership.

“We reaffirm our collective dedication to promoting effective governance, quality education, accessible healthcare, youth empowerment, and improved living standards for every Nigerian.

“We stand firm, united, and loyal to the NNPP, to the Kwankwasiya Movement, and to the people we serve.”

The legislators are Garba Diso, Ghali Tijjani, Rabi’u Yusuf, Abdulhakeem Ado, Hassan Danjuma, Muhammad Shehu, Datti Yusuf, Sani Wakili, DanKawu Idris, Tijjani Jobe, Hassan Hussain, Mukhtar Yarima, and Muhammed Chiroma.