Former Kano Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and the Kwankwasiyya Movement have denied reports of planning to defect from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), according to a statement released on Friday, January 2, 2026.
The Kwankwasiyya State Caucus, in a statement issued following a meeting on the same day at Kwankwasiyya House in Kano, dismissed claims of a potential defection as “false and unauthorised,” characterizing media coverage of the rumors as misleading. While acknowledging that some individuals might have spread the claims due to misinformation or external factors, the statement clarified no resentment is held toward those responsible. However, caucus members were cautioned against making unauthorised public statements and were called upon to help correct inaccuracies.
The group explicitly stated that neither Kwankwaso nor any member of the Kwankwasiyya Movement has been authorised to discuss or pursue defection. It emphasized that any future decisions regarding political alignment will be communicated through official channels after due consultation within the movement.
The denial comes amid an ongoing crisis within the NNPP in Kano, following the national party leadership’s recent dissolution of state, local government, and ward executive committees. With no recognised leadership currently in place, the caucus warned that no individual or faction is authorised to represent the party. Members were further advised to maintain discipline, avoid spreading unverified claims, and refrain from engaging with media without proper authorisation. The NNPP’s internal leadership vacuum has prompted calls for caution among members, as the party works to resolve its disputes.
The statement reaffirmed the Kwankwasiyya Movement’s commitment to the NNPP, urging supporters to await official communications on any political developments.