In a firm and defiant response to the significant defection of key allies, former presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso has declared his unwavering commitment to his political principles, stating emphatically, “I’m not for sale.”
The declaration follows the resignation of Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), alongside several local government chairmen, federal lawmakers, and aides—a move that has sent shockwaves through the party’s structure in its crucial stronghold.
Addressing a gathering of loyal supporters at his residence in Kano on Friday, Kwankwaso, the national leader of the NNPP and the founder of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, framed the upheaval as a test of political integrity.
“Our political convictions keep me grounded,” he stated. “If I were in it for personal gain, I would have taken the easy route and you would be looking for me elsewhere, not in this place.”
He portrayed the sustained strength of his political movement as being rooted in shared values rather than financial inducement. “Our shared vision is what keeps me going. If I were motivated by greed, I would have taken the money and run, and you would not be here showing your support,” he added, directly countering narratives of potential compromise.
The mass exit from the NNPP is seen as a major blow to the party’s cohesion and its prospects ahead of future elections. However, Kwankwaso used the moment not for concession but for early mobilization, urging his supporters to immediately begin preparations for the 2027 general elections.
“We need to start preparing because there are people hell-bent on destroying what we built over time,” he cautioned, referencing the ongoing political developments in Kano. He encouraged his followers, whom he credited for their sacrifice and loyalty, to remain steadfast. “You should not relent, because one day, we will achieve our objectives.”
Reaffirming the core mission of his political career, Kwankwaso pledged continued advocacy for the common citizen. “My mission is to always fight for the ordinary people. I will not compromise with those who exploit the masses,” he declared.
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