In a recent and unexpected development, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has witnessed a significant upheaval as the Board of Trustees (BoT) took decisive action against key members accused of engaging in anti-party activities. This move, which includes the suspension of Rabiu Kwankwaso, a presidential candidate, has not only led to the reshuffling of leadership positions but has also sent shockwaves through the country’s political landscape.
During a media briefing in Lagos, the NNPP BoT made a significant announcement: Rabiu Kwankwaso, the party’s candidate in the February 25 Presidential election, and another party member have been suspended due to allegations of anti-party activities. The suspension, set to last for six months, marks a significant moment in the party’s recent history.
Notably, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the NNPP has not escaped unscathed. The NWC’s suspension of Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, the party’s founder, and the National Publicity Secretary led to a cascade of events that culminated in the changes announced by the BoT.
With these suspensions came a wave of new appointments within the party. Dr. Agbo Major has stepped in as the acting National Chairman, supported by Mr. Ogini Olaposi, who now holds the role of acting National Secretary. This new leadership, accompanied by 18 additional appointments, sets the stage for a transformative period within the NNPP.
The suspension of Rabiu Kwankwaso hinges on allegations of anti-party activities that were reportedly conducted without the necessary authorization from the BoT. The crux of these allegations revolves around Kwankwaso’s interactions with key political figures, including President Bola Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar (Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate), and Peter Obi (Labour Party presidential candidate). The BoT argues that these interactions transpired without the required approval from the party’s governing body.
The acting chairman, in response to the upheaval caused by the suspensions, expressed the party’s commitment to unity and healing. The NNPP aims to regain its reputation as an inclusive and friendly political entity, urging other members who may have become estranged to rejoin its ranks.