The national leadership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has described the departure of Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, as the end of an era and a defining turning point in the party’s political journey.
In a statement signed by the party’s National Secretary, Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday, the NNPP said it accepted Governor Yusuf’s resignation “in good faith,” characterising the move as the close of a political phase closely associated with the influence of the party’s former presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
According to the party, Governor Yusuf explained that his decision was driven by prolonged internal disputes and leadership disagreements within the NNPP, which, it said, gradually eroded unity and weakened coordination, particularly in Kano State.
The party leadership, led by its National Chairman, Dr. Agbo Gilbert Major, acknowledged that the internal crisis posed serious challenges to cohesion and effective organisation within the party.
“The resignation of Governor Abba Yusuf marks the conclusion of a difficult chapter in the life of our party. We wish him well in his future political endeavours and urge our members nationwide to remain calm, resilient and committed to building a strong political platform capable of delivering a new Nigeria,” the statement said.
While expressing regret over the circumstances that led to Yusuf’s exit, the NNPP described the internal conflicts as avoidable. The party was critical of Senator Kwankwaso and his political bloc but emphasised its resolve to move forward without being weighed down by internal distractions.
Reaffirming confidence in its founding leadership, the NNPP stressed that it has existed for more than 25 years and would survive present political disagreements. The party also paid tribute to its founder, Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam, crediting him with establishing a solid foundation and articulating a vision aimed at national renewal.
Despite the setback in Kano State, the party expressed optimism about its future, pledging to strengthen its structures across the country ahead of upcoming elections.
“The NNPP will continue to grow stronger, with renewed clarity of purpose and unity,” the statement concluded, adding that the party is positioning itself for sustained political relevance beyond 2027.
What you should know
Abba Yusuf’s exit from the NNPP marks a significant political shift, especially in Kano State, where internal party disputes have been intense.
The development highlights ongoing struggles within Nigerian political parties over leadership control and influence.
While the NNPP has lost a sitting governor, its leadership is framing the moment as a reset rather than a collapse, signalling an attempt to rebuild its identity, consolidate its structures nationwide, and remain relevant in future elections beyond the immediate political cycle.
