The Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in Kano State, Mr Hashimu Sulaiman Dungurawa, says the All Progressives Congress (APC) does not have the political strength to win the 2027 general elections without the influence of Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
Dungurawa stated this at a news conference on Thursday in Kano, held at the NNPP state headquarters.
He alleged that the ruling APC at both the national and state levels had “lost focus and direction,” a situation he said explained their continuous overtures to the NNPP presidential candidate.
“These APC people are weak and confused. They know without Kwankwaso, they will not win in 2027,” he said. “They keep telling the public they are in talks with him. They need him. But he is only concerned about the welfare of Nigerians.”
He, however, said political reconciliation was possible in all parties but maintained that Kwankwaso’s recent meetings with political figures were coincidental and not linked to any alliance discussions.
Responding to a question on the NNPP’s performance in the 2023 presidential election, Dungurawa attributed the party’s votes in Kano to its newness at the time.
“The logo was not clearly printed on the ballot, awareness was low, and the party was only seven months old. Yet, we won seats in Kano, Jigawa, Taraba and Bauchi,” he said.
He added that the redesigned party logo and improved nationwide acceptance would make the 2027 election “a different story.”
Dungurawa also said the party remained strong ahead of its forthcoming congresses, noting that most officials would retain their positions in line with the NNPP constitution.
“Our constitution allows executives to serve two terms unless they defect, die or face disciplinary issues. We believe in continuity and loyalty,” he said.
He disclosed that by-elections would be held next month to replace three councillors who died in Garin, Dala and Doguwa LGAs.
The chairman commended Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf’s proposed 2026 budget, describing its priority on education and agriculture as unprecedented. He also lauded the administration for what he called “visible infrastructural transformation” across the state.
Dungurawa criticised the immediate past administration of Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, accusing it of neglecting education, scholarships and pension obligations.
On recent defections from the NNPP, he said only one federal lawmaker voluntarily exited the party, while others had been suspended before leaving.
“We are not worried. The party does not need people with difficult character. NNPP is like a royal suite—some may go to a standard room, but they will eventually realise the difference,” he said.
He dismissed reports that a former civil servant, Jamilu Kabir Bichi, had left the NNPP, saying “he was never a member in the first place.”
Dungurawa urged party members to remain united and prepare for what he described as a stronger and more strategic NNPP ahead of the 2027 elections.