No More “Use and Dump”: Kwankwaso Lists Conditions for APC Return

Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has declared that he is open to rejoining the All Progressives Congress (APC), but only under conditions that safeguard the interests of his party and political movement, Kwankwasiyya.

Speaking at his residence in Kano, Kwankwaso stressed that any political alliance must recognise the sacrifices made by his supporters and protect the NNPP’s electoral structures across the country. He reminded his audience that the NNPP fielded candidates at various levels during the last elections, underscoring its national spread and relevance.

The Kwankwaso also noted that past alliances had left his movement sidelined, insisting this time would be different. “We are ready to join APC under strong conditions and promises. We will not allow anyone to use us and later dump us,” he stated.

Kwankwaso Reflecting on Past Experiences with APC

Kwankwaso recalled the role he and his associates played in the formation of the APC, stressing that they endured political persecution under previous administrations while championing the new party. However, he lamented that despite those sacrifices, his faction was neglected once the APC assumed power.

According to him, recognition was denied simply because his group did not originate from the core founding bloc of the ruling party. “We were among the founding fathers of the APC, yet when the party assumed power, we received no recognition or appreciation,” he remarked.

The NNPP leader warned that he would not repeat the mistakes of the past, noting that only clear and binding agreements would convince him to form an alliance again.

Kwankwaso Open to Alliances Beyond APC

While addressing calls to return to the APC, Kwankwaso maintained that his political movement was not desperate to abandon the NNPP. He emphasised that his party remains active nationwide and continues to provide him and his followers peace of mind.

Nonetheless, he acknowledged the possibility of forging alliances with either the APC or the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), provided such agreements are transparent and uphold mutual respect. “Even if it is the PDP that realised their mistakes, let’s enter an agreement that will be made public,” he explained.

Kwankwas’s statement highlights his cautious approach to political partnerships as he weighs his options ahead of the 2027 general elections.