Kwankwaso Sets Terms for Possible Return to APC
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the 2023 elections, has signaled readiness to rejoin the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) — but only under what he described as “strong conditions.”
The former Kano State governor made the disclosure on Thursday when he received Buhari Bakwana, a one-time political adviser to ex-Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, alongside a delegation of APC members from all 44 local government areas of Kano State at his residence.
Kwankwaso emphasized that any negotiation for his return must be clear on what the NNPP stands to benefit. “If you are asking us to join APC, you must tell us what NNPP will gain,” he said, warning that his party would not accept being “used and dumped.”
He reminded his visitors of his role in the founding of APC in 2013, recalling how he and six other governors spearheaded the party’s creation and endured political persecution in the process. “ICPC, EFCC, and the police were all used against me just to derail our mission. Nobody can tell me the sacrifice we made for APC,” he said.
Reflecting on past experiences, Kwankwaso accused both APC and PDP of reneging on agreements. “Eight years of APC under Buhari yielded nothing for us, not even recognition. In PDP, we asked only for a zonal chairman, but they denied us. We left quietly, and today we are stronger and with integrity,” he added.
Despite his statement, the position contrasts with his earlier declaration at the NNPP National Executive Council meeting, where he vowed to remain in the party despite speculation over his political moves.
Reacting to Kwankwaso’s remarks, Kano APC State Secretary, Hon. Zakari Ibrahim Sarina, said the party would gladly welcome him back, provided he respects the rules. He, however, dismissed concerns that Kwankwaso could hijack the party structure.
“APC is not NNPP where he has sole control. No individual controls APC; it is a national party. We will receive him because his presence strengthens us, especially for the peace and development of Kano,” Sarina said.
