The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has attributed recent high-profile defections to presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso’s alleged anti-party activities and betrayal of trust. Rep. Abdulmuni Jibrin’s move to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Oluremi Oguntoyinbo’s switch to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stem from Kwankwaso’s actions, according to the party.

Oguntoyinbo, previously NNPP’s gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State, formally resigned on Monday. National Secretary Ogini Olaposi stated that the defections resulted from Kwankwaso’s attempt to hijack party structures.

Leadership Crisis and Betrayal Allegations

“The NNPP faced multiple litigations after Kwankwaso and his supporters tried to seize party leadership,” Olaposi explained. “Responsible politicians cannot remain where one person dominates decision-making in a supposed democracy.”

The party accused Kwankwaso of betraying founder Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, who granted him the presidential ticket at no cost. “This avoidable breach of trust continues to haunt our party,” the statement emphasized.

Members Seek Political Relevance

Olaposi noted the defections precede 2027 elections, with members seeking parties offering fair nomination processes. “We aren’t surprised by these alignments. Members migrate to where they can contest without leadership abuse.”

The NNPP affirmed members’ right to choose parties freely, stating: “Politics isn’t do-or-die. We believe in honesty and integrity. Those no longer aligned with our ideology may depart.”

Appeal to INEC

The party urged INEC’s new leadership to resolve their internal crisis promptly. “We hope INEC won’t await court orders to enforce valid judgments. Our members should stay calm—we’ll regain party control,” Olaposi concluded.