Jibrin accepts NNPP expulsion — but says he was denied fair hearing

Abdulmumin Jibrin, lawmaker representing Kiru/Bebeji federal constituency in Kano, says he has accepted his expulsion from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) but insists the party failed to follow due process.

On Saturday, the Kano state chapter of NNPP expelled Jibrin over alleged anti-party activities.

Hashim Sulaiman Dungurawa, state chairman of the party, said the lawmaker had repeatedly launched media attacks against the party and its leadership.

Dungurawa described Jibrin as a “weak politician” who owes his electoral success to the Kwankwasiyya movement and the NNPP platform rather than personal influence.

In response to his expulsion, Jibrin described the decision of the party as “a rude shock”, arguing that the interview he granted in English and Hausa, which formed the basis for his expulsion, was consistent with the principles of the party and its movement.

“I strongly believe the contents of the interview should not warrant such a heavy penalty,” he said.

“No invitation was extended to me to defend myself before any organ of the party. Even under military dictatorship, an accused is subjected to a court martial.”

The former director-general of the Tinubu campaign in 2019 said although he would have loved to remain in the NNPP, he has no choice but to accept the decision of the leadership in good faith.

“But for the respect I have for the party, its members and leaders, I would have viewed this action as null and void as it failed to follow due process,” he said.

“I will rather wish the party well and go in peace. I beg the party to allow me also go in peace.”

On allegations of failure to pay dues, Jibrin denied refusal to contribute financially to the party.

“I respectfully request the party to send me the invoice and I will promptly pay,” he said, adding that there is no need for litigation.

The lawmaker also criticised what he described as the NNPP’s disregard for the political value of its members.

“The party does not believe anybody has political value or deserves respect at various levels,” he said.

“I am grateful to Almighty Allah for whatever value I have, no matter how little. I would rather invest it where it will be appreciated with dignity.”