The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has dismissed claims that Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, its national leader and 2023 presidential candidate, is defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Prince Nweze Onu, NNPP national vice-chairman (south-east), said the rumours were baseless and driven by social media speculation.
His words: “Talks about Kwankwaso moving to the APC only exist on social media.
“I am sure you know that the use of artificial intelligence and other instruments of social media is very dangerous and makes people spin a lot of narration, especially when it comes to politics.”
Onu also denied that Kwankwaso’s recent visit to the presidential villa had anything to do with defection plans.
“No, he didn’t go for any visitation. He only went there for a programme. The only reason both of them were seen together was because the programme was held at the Presidential Villa,” he said.
However, during the visit on July 21, 2025, Kwankwaso had told state house correspondents that his discussion with President Bola Tinubu “centred on politics and governance,” adding that he “might work with Tinubu.”
The statement has continued to fuel speculation about a potential alliance ahead of the 2027 elections.
Despite that, Onu said Kwankwaso’s recent criticisms of the Tinubu administration were justified.
“He is right. It is a clear manifestation, and that has been the reason we in the opposition have to talk. Somebody must make the president realise what he’s doing,” he said.
Onu also confirmed that Kwankwaso will contest the 2027 presidential election.
“Why not? That is what we are saying. For as long as he is a Nigerian and he meets the statutory requirement to aspire to vote and be voted for, he is good to go,” he said.
He accused the APC of being overly fixated on the 2027 race.
“They are just too desperate. Their attempt to do too much is what is pushing them into depression,” he said.
