Since the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) assumed power in Kano State following the 2023 general elections, its internal cohesion has faced mounting challenges. These challenges stem largely from the party’s inability to manage disputes or reconcile grievances among loyal members, many of whom were instrumental to its historic victory.
The party has increasingly adopted a dismissive approach to dissent. Party members who express contrary views or highlight governance issues are often labelled, mocked, suspended, or stripped of party privileges. The prevailing attitude from certain quarters of the NNPP leadership appears to be: “If you’re not with us, you’re irrelevant.” This disregard for dialogue and inclusion has forced many dedicated members out of the party.
At the core of the crisis is a toxic political culture where absolute loyalty to the party’s central figure in Kano is valued above all—sometimes even above the national interest. For example, Senator Sulaiman Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila’s motion calling for the creation of Tiga State—a move designed to bring government closer to the people—was not only criticized but seen as an act of rebellion. Likewise, his support for local government autonomy, a long-overdue reform aimed at empowering grassroots governance, met similar resistance simply because it didn’t align with the interests of the party’s inner circle.
This growing authoritarianism within the NNPP has triggered a wave of high-profile defections, including that of a serving senator, members of the House of Representatives, and State Assembly lawmakers. One of the most recent and symbolic exits was that of Senator Kawu Sumaila, Kabiru Alhassan Rurum, and Mallam Abdullahi Sani Rogo, who officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC). In response, more than 100,000 youths loyal to Senator Kawu mobilized for a mega solidarity rally in Sumaila, endorsing Kawu’s defection and reaffirming their trust in his leadership.
Speaking on behalf of the teeming youths, Dr. Umar Ahmad Aliyu commended Mr. President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at all levels. He further urged the president to sustain and intensify efforts, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, agriculture, and job creation—especially for the youth. He emphasized that “these sectors are vital tools through which young people can discover their potential, become productive members of society, and contribute to addressing the prevailing challenges of insecurity, economic instability, innovation, and national interest.”
Under Senator Kawu’s leadership, Kano South has witnessed a level of federal presence never seen before. Highlights include:
1. ₦124.4 billion federal allocation for the Kano–Maiduguri Road Phase 1, including the perilous Wudil–Gaya section, which claimed 274 lives in 2022 alone.
2. ₦95 billion for the rehabilitation of three major dams—Tiga, Karaye, and Kafinchiri—a game-changer for irrigation and food production in the region.
3. Approval for the establishment of Federal Polytechnic Rano, expanding educational access and skill development in rural communities.
4. Federal Medical Center Rano, now approved to offer specialized healthcare to thousands.
5. Ongoing legislative processes for a Federal College of Education (Special) in Karaye, which has passed key readings and is awaiting final approval and presidential assent.
These efforts represent meaningful progress, tangible development, and responsive leadership rooted in the needs of the people—something party loyalty alone cannot guarantee. One can only earn the people’s mandate by surpassing the progress already recorded, committing more resources to the region. The defectors will not simply fold their arms and watch.
With so many leaving, the NNPP cannot continue to ignore the people’s voice. Political parties exist to serve the people—not to silence internal dialogue or suppress developmental advocacy. The APC’s growing popularity in Kano South—driven by visible progress and inclusive governance—signals a new era of politics built on performance, not personality cults.
As the 2027 elections approach, the lesson is clear: genuine leadership, national development, and participatory politics will always earn the people’s trust—regardless of party affiliation.
Comr. Umar Ali wrote this piece from Kano Nigeria
The opinions and views expressed by contributors are solely their own and do not reflect the official stance of Kano Times.
