The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Kano State is facing an escalating crisis following the suspension of four key lawmakers, a move that has sparked concerns of mass defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The affected legislators, Senator Abdulraham Kawu Sumaila (Kano South), Abdullahi Sani Rogo (Rogo Federal Constituency), Abdullahi Rirum (Rano/Kibiya Federal Constituency), and Ali Maadakin Gini (Dala Federal Constituency), are influential figures with strong grassroots support. Their suspension has heightened tensions within the party, raising questions about its stability ahead of the 2027 elections.
NNPP Justifies Suspensions Amid Rising Tensions
Announcing the decision, NNPP State Chairman Hashimu Danguruwa accused the lawmakers of anti-party activities, disloyalty, and violating party rules. He particularly criticized Sumaila for inviting APC members, instead of NNPP leaders, to his daughter’s wedding.
“These individuals have repeatedly acted against the party’s interest. Their suspension is necessary to maintain discipline within our ranks,” Danguruwa stated, describing them as “non-functional members” working against NNPP’s success.
However, party insiders warn that the decision could backfire. A source within the party lamented that Sumaila, who secured a landslide victory against former Governor Kabiru Gaya in 2023, could take a large faction of NNPP supporters with him if he defects to APC.
“This is a sad day for NNPP. Sumaila’s influence cannot be underestimated. If these lawmakers leave, it will change the political dynamics in Kano,” the source said.
Growing Rift with Kwankwassiyya Faction
Reports indicate that tensions had been brewing for months, with the suspended lawmakers frequently absent from NNPP meetings and events. They were also often seen engaging with APC officials, further fueling suspicions of a potential defection. Their uneasy relationship with the powerful Kwankwassiyya faction, led by Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, only worsened the internal rift.
Political analysts suggest that the suspensions were inevitable, given the growing friction between these lawmakers and the party’s leadership. Many believe their dissatisfaction stemmed from being sidelined in critical party decisions, particularly during the selection process for local government elections.
Legal Disputes and Uncertain Future
Meanwhile, Mas’ud el-Jibril Doguwa, a former senator and member of an opposing NNPP faction, has dismissed the suspension as illegitimate. He cited a court ruling that nullified the leadership of Kwankwaso’s faction in Kano, arguing that the state chairman lacked the authority to suspend members of the National Executive Committee (NEC).
“This action is laughable. It holds no legal standing. If the Kwankwaso-led faction continues down this path, legal action will be inevitable,” Doguwa declared.
With the 2027 elections on the horizon, the NNPP’s internal divisions could severely weaken its influence in Kano, a key battleground state. While Kwankwaso has a history of overcoming political challenges, a wave of defections could shift the balance of power in favor of the APC.
Observers are now watching closely to see whether the suspended lawmakers will make their next move official. If they do, the NNPP may find itself in an even deeper crisis, struggling to retain its dominance in Kano politics.
