National Leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, says he would only consider rejoining the All Progressives Congress (APC) if his Kwankwasiyya movement is fully recognised within the party structure.
Speculation has been rife that the former Kano governor could be heading back to the APC. However, while addressing supporters at his Kano residence on Friday, where he received Buhari Bakwana, a former political adviser to Abdullahi Ganduje, alongside APC members from the state’s 44 LGAs, Kwankwaso set the record straight.
“I am willing to engage with the APC, but only under a clear agreement that guarantees full recognition of my political movement, the Kwankwasiyya,” he declared.
“My movement and its people are paramount to me, and I cannot abandon them for any political arrangement.”
The former presidential candidate reminded his audience of his role in forming the APC, alleging that he and his allies faced harassment under the Muhammadu Buhari administration.
“We were among the founding fathers of the APC and endured significant persecution from various security agencies while challenging the previous administration,” he said.
“Yet when the party assumed power, we received no recognition or appreciation for our sacrifices, simply because we didn’t originate from their original faction.”
Kwankwaso also criticised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), saying his group was sidelined when they attempted to return, with no leadership position, not even a zonal chairmanship, offered.
He stressed that his experience in both parties has strengthened the resolve of the Kwankwasiyya movement to remain independent unless treated as an equal partner.
“We are ready to join APC under strong conditions and promises. We will not allow anyone to use us and later dump us,” he said.
“However, we remain open to genuine partnerships with any party willing to honour the agreement and treat us as equal partners.”
Kwankwaso added that even if the PDP approached him again, any alliance would only be possible under transparent and credible commitments.
