2027: NNPP’s internal wrangling, factionalism, lawmakers suspension shake Kano politics

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) ‘climbed’ to power in Kano in 2023 with overwhelming grassroots support, riding on the influence of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and the Kwankwasiyya movement. But less than two years into its administration, the party is showing signs of internal cracks. Recent defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC), rising internal
2027: NNPP’s internal wrangling, factionalism, lawmakers suspension shake Kano politics

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) ‘climbed’ to power in Kano in 2023 with overwhelming grassroots support, riding on the influence of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and the Kwankwasiyya movement.
But less than two years into its administration, the party is showing signs of internal cracks.

Recent defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC), rising internal dissatisfaction, and governance challenges have cast doubt on NNPP’s ability to maintain its dominance in Kano.

On Monday, the Kano State chapter of the NNPP announced the suspension of a senator and three members of the House of Representatives.

The affected lawmakers include Senator Kawu Sumaila (Kano South), Aliyu Madaki (Dala Federal Constituency), Sani Rogo (Rogo Federal Constituency), and Kabiru Rurum (Rano, Kibiya, Bunkure Federal Constituency).

Hashimu Dungurawa, the party’s state chairman, in an interview with DAILY POST cited disloyalty and non-compliance with party directives as reasons for their suspension.

According to him, the lawmakers repeatedly ignored party activities, including major events organized by both Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and Kwankwaso.

“The governor has undertaken several projects in their respective constituencies, yet they never showed up. Kwankwaso organized events in both Kano and Abuja, but they were absent. During our recent nationwide committee meeting, all stakeholders attended except them, and they never offered any explanation,” Dungurawa stated in the interview.

The state chairman further alleged that Sumaila’s actions, including the invitation of key APC figures to his daughter’s wedding and the commissioning of his university projects, demonstrated his lack of commitment to the NNPP.

“The people who fought against him in 2009 and 2023 were present at his events, while those who helped him secure his political position were sidelined. This is why we had to act,” he stated.

However, the suspended lawmakers have rejected the party’s action.

They tagged it an illegitimate decision driven by Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s faction.

In a joint statement on Monday, the lawmakers accused the NNPP leader of running the party like a personal empire.

“Hashimu Dungurawa, a political puppet of Kwankwaso, lacks any credibility to speak on NNPP matters. This so-called ‘suspension’ is nothing but a fraudulent political gimmick designed to deceive the public and distract them from the monumental failures of Kwankwaso’s faction,” the lawmakers declared.

They accused Kwankwaso of using the NNPP as a tool for personal vendettas.

“Politics should be about service, integrity, and development not a tool for dictatorship. Unfortunately, in Kano State, Kwankwaso has turned the NNPP into his personal empire, disregarding party unity and democratic principles.”

Also, on Tuesday, the party’s national leadership, through its National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Oginni Olaposi, also rejected the suspension, declaring it “null and void.”

According to Olaposi, the decision was orchestrated by the Kwankwasiyya movement, which no longer holds a formal relationship with the NNPP.

“The memorandum of understanding (MoU) between NNPP and the Kwankwasiyya Movement ended after the 2023 elections. The faction claiming to suspend these lawmakers lacks the authority to do so. We appeal to the people of Kano to disregard their pronouncements,” Olaposi stated.

He also referenced a court ruling that placed the NNPP under the leadership of its Board of Trustees Chairman, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam.

“Kwankwaso and his faction have no legal standing to act on behalf of the party. Their statements are misleading and could cause public unrest in Kano.”

In an interview with DAILY POST on Thursday, Comrade Khatimul Kulkul, Senior Special Reporter to the Kano State Governor from the Ministry of Local and Chieftaincy Affairs, defended the suspension of the lawmakers.

He stated that it was necessary to protect the party from internal crises.

“Internal crises are the most dangerous for a party,” Kulkul said.

“Someone may appear to be with you, but in reality, they are not. Such individuals could be leaking party secrets and agenda to outsiders.”

He explained that the NNPP had come to the realization that the suspended lawmakers and senator were not genuinely aligned with the party’s interests. “If we go into 2027 with them, they will create problems for us. This is why we decided to do away with them now to prepare for the next elections. If we had allowed them to stay, they would have shown their true colors closer to 2027.”

Kulkul also mentioned that despite the defections of prominent figures in the past, the Kwankwasiyya movement has remained strong.

“Aminu Dabo left us, but no matter how prominent Kawu Sumaila thinks he is, he is not at the level of Aminu Dabo, Adamu Yusuf Dangwadima. People who have been with Kwankwasiyya for years. Kawu Sumaila only recently joined and was never originally part of the movement. Many have left before, but that has never stopped us from succeeding.”

He remained confident about the party’s prospects in 2027.

“This will only make us more prepared, and we will put them to shame. The Kwankwasiyya movement will prevail in 2027, just as it has in past elections.

“If you look at the political tide from 2011 until now, there have been crises, deepened politics, inconclusive elections but Kwankwasiyya always prevails because we have a determined leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. And we will put them to shame again.”

Political analysts evaluates party’s ‘journey’ to 2027

An exclusive interview with political analyst, Abba Gwale has revealed growing internal crisis within the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Kano, raising concerns about its readiness for the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on the current state of the party, Gwale highlighted the deepening factional struggle between two opposing camps.

“We all know there’s a faction in the party, one led by Dungurawa, who has the backing of the Kano State government, and the other led by Zarewa. But you know, it’s politics; internal issues are bound to arise, especially as we approach the 2027 general elections,” Gwale said.

He noted that the Dungurawa-led faction recently suspended four federal lawmakers from the party.

According to him, this division could weaken the party’s prospects if left unresolved.

“The party is not in a good position heading into 2027 unless they sit down, amend their differences, and prepare for the politicking ahead,” he added.

Is NNPP still trusted in Kano?

Despite these internal challenges, Gwale believes NNPP still enjoys significant support in Kano, largely due to the influence of the Kwankwasiyya movement and the administration’s infrastructural efforts.

“People still trust the party in Kano because it’s new and hasn’t exhausted the patience people have for it. In terms of infrastructural and human development, the NNPP under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is trying,” he explained.

However, he acknowledged that the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) remains strong, benefiting from federal influence.

“The APC is still active and enjoys the backing of the federal government. Their leaders, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and former governor Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, are doing everything to maintain relevance in the state,” Gwale stated.

Can APC reclaim Kano in 2027?

When asked about APC’s chances of reclaiming power in 2027, Gwale remained cautious, citing the unpredictability of Nigerian politics.

“We cannot predict the outcome directly, but many unfolding events will play a role. The trust in NNPP and Kwankwasiyya still exists. However, the country’s economic situation could affect APC’s chances in many states, not just Kano,” he explained.

Despite the challenges, Gwale said the APC is already strategizing.

“They still have time to woo voters, and they are doing that now. But unseating an incumbent government is not easy. You need public trust and other political factors to align in your favor,” he said.

Commenting on recent political shifts, Gwale pointed out a significant change on how the opposition is being treated in Kano.

“The state government now allows the opposition to operate freely, something they didn’t enjoy when they were in opposition,” he observed.

However, he warned that the defection of government officials to the opposition is a worrying sign for NNPP.

“When people in government, despite all the benefits of being in power, start leaving for the opposition, then something is not working as it should. We are seeing special advisers resigning and joining the opposition. this is alarming, and they need to address it before it’s too late,” he cautioned.

Auwal Sumaila, a resident in Hotoro revealed to this reporter that the suspension of Kawu Sumaila and other lawmakers will surely affect the NNPP.

“Most people are in the party because of Kawu. So, when he leaves, he is leaving with his people for sure. I will follow him to whatever party he leaves for,” he said.

Recall that the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, revealed that more key figures from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) will soon defect to the ruling party on Sunday during an empowerment program.

According to him, the APC’s policies and governance approach were attracting opposition members.

Also, at the empowerment program, Rep. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), pledged that the NNPP will be defeated in Kano before 1 p.m on election day in 2027.

2027: NNPP’s internal wrangling, factionalism, lawmakers suspension shake Kano politics

300 IDPs relocated to Nasarawa – NCFRMI

Three hundred (300) Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) have been relocated by the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), to the Keffi Resettlement City. The Federal Commissioner of the NCFRMI, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, said more IDPs would be relocated to the city in the coming days. According to him, the establishment of
300 IDPs relocated to Nasarawa – NCFRMI

Three hundred (300) Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) have been relocated by the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), to the Keffi Resettlement City.

The Federal Commissioner of the NCFRMI, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, said more IDPs would be relocated to the city in the coming days.

According to him, the establishment of the city was in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to give hope to all Nigerians notwithstanding their situations.

He added, “The project is a continuous one and we will continue to build more houses and bring in more people.”

Ahmed explained that all the IDPs brought in came voluntarily.

He stated that the IDPs could remain in the city as long as they wanted, saying that there was a plan to integrate them into the community eventually.

He assured, “At the end of the fasting period, we are going to have an elaborate exercise where those IDPs and refugees we intend to settle here in Keffi will all be here and settled.

“We are not only settling them, we would also ensure that we integrate them into the community,” he stated.

300 IDPs relocated to Nasarawa – NCFRMI

South Korea seeks exemption from US tariffs

South Korea’s industry minister, Ahn Duk-geun on Saturday requested a tariff exemption in talks with the US administration as Washington moves forward with plans to impose new tariffs. Seoul’s industry ministry in a statement said Duk-geun met with US Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, US Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and US Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer in
South Korea seeks exemption from US tariffs

South Korea’s industry minister, Ahn Duk-geun on Saturday requested a tariff exemption in talks with the US administration as Washington moves forward with plans to impose new tariffs.

Seoul’s industry ministry in a statement said Duk-geun met with US Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, US Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and US Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer in Washington this week, seeking tariff exemptions from the administration of US President Donald Trump and discussing ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

“Minister Ahn discussed strengthening partnerships in strategic industries such as shipbuilding and advanced industries with commerce secretary Lutnick.

“At the same time, he conveyed South Korean companies’ concerns regarding the U.S. government’s tariff measures and requested tariff exemptions,” the industry ministry said.

According to the ministry, South Korea and the US have also agreed to set up a working-level channel to discuss tariff-related issues and cooperation in the shipbuilding sector.

The meeting with Lutnick is said to have marked the first ministerial-level trade talks between the countries in Trump’s second term, taking place amid a diplomatic vacuum as impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol is suspended from duties over his short-lived imposition of martial law.

The minister travelled to Washington, DC earlier this week to push for an exemption from US steel tariffs and discuss ways to cooperate in energy and shipbuilding.

This came less than a week after Deputy Trade Minister Park Jong-won led the first major South Korean government delegation to visit Washington since Trump took office, asking his administration to exempt Seoul from steel and aluminium tariffs.

South Korea seeks exemption from US tariffs

Katsina Hisbah orders private schools to shut down for Ramadan

The Katsina State Hisbah Board has directed all private schools in the state to suspend academic activities throughout the month of Ramadan. The government-backed agency, which enforces Sharia law in line with Islamic principles, warned that non-compliance with the directive would not be tolerated. In a statement issued on Thursday, the Commander-General of the board,
Katsina Hisbah orders private schools to shut down for Ramadan

The Katsina State Hisbah Board has directed all private schools in the state to suspend academic activities throughout the month of Ramadan.

The government-backed agency, which enforces Sharia law in line with Islamic principles, warned that non-compliance with the directive would not be tolerated.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Commander-General of the board, Malam Aminu Usman, said the decision aligns with the state government’s directive.

He urged school proprietors to adhere strictly to the order, emphasizing that the closure would enable pupils to fully observe the fasting period.

“The directive also includes extra lessons,” the statement added.

Katsina Hisbah orders private schools to shut down for Ramadan

Sokoto govt slams ASUU-SSU strike, says it’s politically motivated

The Sokoto State Government has strongly condemned the ongoing strike action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Sokoto State University chapter, describing it as unnecessary and politically motivated. Speaking at a press conference in Sokoto on Friday, the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Isa Muhammad Maishanu, expressed disappointment over the decision of ASUU-SSU
Sokoto govt slams ASUU-SSU strike, says it’s politically motivated

The Sokoto State Government has strongly condemned the ongoing strike action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Sokoto State University chapter, describing it as unnecessary and politically motivated.

Speaking at a press conference in Sokoto on Friday, the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Isa Muhammad Maishanu, expressed disappointment over the decision of ASUU-SSU to down tools despite what he described as significant progress made by the Ahmed Aliyu-led administration in revitalizing the university.

According to Maishanu, when the current administration assumed office, SSU was in a deplorable state, with dilapidated buildings, lack of electricity, and no functional water supply, all of which negatively impacted academic activities.

However, since taking over, the government has worked to restore the institution’s infrastructure and reintroduced cash allocations, which had been halted by the previous administration.

“When we came on board, Sokoto State University was in a terrible state, with no electricity, no water, and classrooms in disrepair. Despite all this, ASUU did not go on strike. But now, when we have begun making tangible improvements, they suddenly find reasons to down tools. Why?” Maishanu questioned.

He further noted that under the past administration, visiting lecturers had abandoned the university due to non-payment of salaries.

However, the present government restored their payments, ensuring that academic activities continued smoothly.

“We expected ASUU to acknowledge these efforts, but instead, they have chosen confrontation over cooperation,” the commissioner stated.

Recall that ASUU-SSU, in a press statement on Thursday cited the non-implementation of the 25%-35% salary increment, non-payment of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA), and the poor condition of staff quarters as reasons for the strike.

However, Maishanu clarified that the government had already constituted a committee to address these concerns.

“As soon as ASUU presented the salary increment issue, the Governor approved a committee to look into it. The committee has met twice, gathered relevant documents from other universities, and is currently finalizing its report. ASUU, as a body of intellectuals, should be patient rather than resort to strike action,” he said.

On the issue of unpaid earned academic allowances, Maishanu assured that the matter was under review and that the government was committed to resolving it.

He also revealed that union dues and cooperative deductions, which were withheld by the previous administration, had already been restored.

“We have remitted all dues and deductions owed to ASUU since we assumed office. Yet, instead of engaging with us constructively, they have chosen to disrupt the academic calendar,” he lamented.

Regarding the poor condition of the staff quarters, Maishanu acknowledged the issue and disclosed that the government had already deployed a team of engineers to assess the situation and begin renovation work.

The state government maintained that education remains its top priority, evidenced by the fact that the sector received the largest share of the 2025 state budget.

“Additionally, Governor Ahmed Aliyu has appointed three professors to key positions in the education sector, further demonstrating his commitment to academic excellence”.

The commissioner, therefore, called on ASUU to reconsider its stance and return to the classrooms in the interest of students and the state.

“This government will not allow any group to jeopardize the education of our children. ASUU should remain apolitical and avoid being used by unpatriotic individuals to destabilize our educational system,” Maishanu warned.

Sokoto govt slams ASUU-SSU strike, says it’s politically motivated

Natasha: We are watching, will take action appropriately – Ebira people tell Senate

The Ebira Peoples Association (EPA) has declared its full support for Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, while calling on the Nigerian Senate to prevent acts of intimidation and harassment within the legislative chamber. In a statement issued on Friday, EPA President General, Dr. Oyibo Godwin, condemned recent developments in the Senate,
Natasha: We are watching, will take action appropriately – Ebira people tell Senate

The Ebira Peoples Association (EPA) has declared its full support for Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, while calling on the Nigerian Senate to prevent acts of intimidation and harassment within the legislative chamber.

In a statement issued on Friday, EPA President General, Dr. Oyibo Godwin, condemned recent developments in the Senate, including Senator Natasha’s removal as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Local Content and her sudden displacement from her designated seat.

He described these actions as punitive and politically motivated, sparking widespread reactions across social and conventional media.

“We have followed the events in the Senate closely, from the infamous ‘nightclub’ remark to Senator Natasha’s committee removal and seat reassignment. These actions appear to be targeted and unjustified,” the statement read.

The association emphasized that while it initially refrained from commenting, it had trusted the Senate to resolve internal matters with fairness and uphold the rights and dignity of all senators, irrespective of their gender, ethnicity, or political affiliation.

However, EPA expressed concern over the involvement of certain tribal organizations in the dispute, stating that their interference has prompted a response from the people of Kogi Central.

“We are closely monitoring every action, statement, and development before the Senate Ethics and Privileges Committee sitting. We are taking note of everything and will respond at the appropriate time,” the statement added.

Reaffirming their confidence in Senator Natasha’s representation, the EPA insisted that she has performed excellently in her legislative duties and must not be subjected to persecution for any reason.

Natasha: We are watching, will take action appropriately – Ebira people tell Senate

Russia-Ukraine: It wasn’t good – Zelenskyy on meeting with Trump

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has spoken about the outcome of his meeting with the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, saying it was not good. According to him, the meeting held at the Oval Office, White House, was ‘not good for both sides’. The Ukraine president expressed regret over the contentious
Russia-Ukraine: It wasn’t good – Zelenskyy on meeting with Trump

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has spoken about the outcome of his meeting with the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, saying it was not good.

According to him, the meeting held at the Oval Office, White House, was ‘not good for both sides’.

The Ukraine president expressed regret over the contentious meeting but said his relationship with Trump can be salvaged.

Zelenskyy’s meeting with Trump, as widely reported, devolved into a shocking display of acrimony between the leaders.

There was a public confrontation as Trump and Vice-President JD Vance berated Zelenskyy, accusing him of “gambling with world war three.”

Speaking to Fox News after the meeting, Zelenskyy agreed the dispute was “not good for both sides” but refused to say whether he owes President Trump an apology or not.

Asked if he felt like he owed the US president an apology, Zelenskyy did not directly answer but instead said that “I think that we have to be very open and very honest. And I’m not sure that we did something bad.”

The Ukrainian leader made the trip to the US for a high-stakes meeting with Trump which was meant to be about the minerals deal the Ukrainians hoped would be a step toward unlocking security guarantees from the US as part of a ceasefire agreement to end the grueling war.

But after the disastrous on-camera dispute, Zelenskyy left the White House early, and a press conference to announce the minerals deal was scrapped.

Russia-Ukraine: It wasn’t good – Zelenskyy on meeting with Trump

Adamawa gets investment promotion agency

Adamawa State now has an agency to promote investments. The agency is an offshot of a government unit, according to information gathered Saturday morning. “Adamawa State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has approved the conversion of the Adamawa Investment Promotion and Public-Private Partnership Coordinating Unit into the Adamawa Investment Promotion Agency (AIPA),” the governor’s
Adamawa gets investment promotion agency

Adamawa State now has an agency to promote investments.

The agency is an offshot of a government unit, according to information gathered Saturday morning.

“Adamawa State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has approved the conversion of the Adamawa Investment Promotion and Public-Private Partnership Coordinating Unit into the Adamawa Investment Promotion Agency (AIPA),” the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou said in a release.

According to Wonosikou, “This transformation aligns with the Fintiri administration’s commitment to fostering economic growth, attracting investments, and ensuring sustainable development across the state.”

He disclosed that the upgrade followed the passage of the Adamawa Investment Promotion Agency Law 2024, which was officially assented to by the Governor on December 4, 2024.

“The establishment of AIPA provides a solid legal framework to implement investment policies effectively, making Adamawa a more attractive destination for investors,” Wonosikou explained.

Adamawa gets investment promotion agency

Elon Musk welcomes another baby boy

A close adviser to President Donald Trump of the United States, billionaire Elon Musk has another child, his 14th. It was gathered that his latest child, a son, is with Shivon Zilis, an executive at Musk’s Neuralink with whom he already has three other children. “Discussed with Elon and, in light of beautiful Arcadia’s birthday,
Elon Musk welcomes another baby boy

A close adviser to President Donald Trump of the United States, billionaire Elon Musk
has another child, his 14th.

It was gathered that his latest child, a son, is with Shivon Zilis, an executive at Musk’s Neuralink with whom he already has three other children.

“Discussed with Elon and, in light of beautiful Arcadia’s birthday, we felt it was better to also just share directly about our wonderful and incredible son Seldon Lycurgus,” Zilis said in a post on X without mentioning when the child was born.

Musk responded with a heart.

This announcement comes two weeks after conservative influencer, Ashley St. Clair stated that she also recently had a child with Musk.

Elon Musk welcomes another baby boy

Elon Musk welcomes another baby boy

A close adviser to President Donald Trump of the United States, billionaire Elon Musk has another child, his 14th. It was gathered that his latest child, a son, is with Shivon Zilis, an executive at Musk’s Neuralink with whom he already has three other children. “Discussed with Elon and, in light of beautiful Arcadia’s birthday,
Elon Musk welcomes another baby boy

A close adviser to President Donald Trump of the United States, billionaire Elon Musk
has another child, his 14th.

It was gathered that his latest child, a son, is with Shivon Zilis, an executive at Musk’s Neuralink with whom he already has three other children.

“Discussed with Elon and, in light of beautiful Arcadia’s birthday, we felt it was better to also just share directly about our wonderful and incredible son Seldon Lycurgus,” Zilis said in a post on X without mentioning when the child was born.

Musk responded with a heart.

This announcement comes two weeks after conservative influencer, Ashley St. Clair stated that she also recently had a child with Musk.

Elon Musk welcomes another baby boy

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