The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has unequivocally stated that its 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, will not be contesting the 2027 presidential election on the party’s platform. This definitive stance was articulated by the NNPP National Chairman, Dr. Agbo Major, in a statement released on Saturday, July 5.

Dr. Major categorically dismissed claims made by Buba Galadima, an ally of Kwankwaso, who had insisted that Kwankwaso would remain with the NNPP and pursue his 2027 presidential ambitions under its banner. The NNPP chairman emphasized that both Kwankwaso and Galadima have long been expelled from the party due to extensive anti-party activities, and therefore, "they no longer speak for us nor can they use our platform for any political contest."

The expulsion stems from a series of internal conflicts and betrayals, as detailed by Dr. Major. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the NNPP and the Kwankwasiya Movement, led by Kwankwaso, concluded shortly after the 2023 presidential election. Kwankwaso reportedly caused significant internal strife, including leading the party into unnecessary litigation and attempting to replace the legitimate NNPP logo with the Kwankwasiya logo. Dr. Major specifically noted, "It was the court’s intervention that led to INEC restoring our original logo after a rogue convention in Abuja." The party insists it cannot allow Kwankwaso to return due to the problems and internal wranglings he instigated.

Regarding Kwankwaso’s future political aspirations, the NNPP chairman was equally resolute. He warned that Kwankwaso cannot expect another "free ticket" for the 2027 elections, as he allegedly received in 2023. Insisting that Kwankwaso and his group would not be readmitted, Dr. Major branded them as having "massively betrayed our trust." He further added, "He does not have the pedigree to match President Tinubu in any contest and so his ambition is dead on arrival."

The NNPP affirmed its commitment to following due constitutional procedures for selecting its 2027 presidential candidate. Dr. Major disclosed that the party is already in talks with other potential aspirants and reiterated that the party’s flag bearer would emerge from a proper process, not "on a platter of gold," especially not for someone who betrayed their trust and is no longer part of the party. Nigerians have been urged to disregard any comments made by Kwankwaso and his group, as they do not represent the NNPP. The party encourages constructive criticism but firmly rejects attacks on personalities or other political parties, advising Kwankwaso to form his own party if he wishes to pursue his agenda independently, as the NNPP has moved on.