Why I may soon dump NNPP- Abdulmumin Jibrin

Abdulmumin Jibrin, the lawmaker representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency and a longtime associate of Rabiu Kwankwaso,  says he may soon part ways with the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

In an interview with DCL Hausa, Jibrin said Nigerians should not be surprised if he decides to leave the party, stressing that he is politically mature enough to chart his own course.

“Even the party (NNPP) itself said it is open to negotiations with other parties, so it is not necessary that I follow the direction of the party. I am old enough to take a stand on what is best for me,” he stated.

The lawmaker noted that he joined the Kwankwasiyya movement as a wealthy individual and had invested personal resources in its growth, which in turn supported his successful return to the National Assembly in 2023.

While reaffirming his respect for Kwankwaso, Jibrin said their paths may eventually diverge.“Even if I am not together with Kwankwaso, I will never insult him, just the way I have never insulted Ganduje even when we parted ways. I have never requested for any contract even though I contributed to the success of NNPP in Kano State. Kwankwasiyya has stood for me, but I have also stood for it,” he said.

He also recalled how no northern political leader came to his aid during his suspension from the House of Representatives in 2016, after his budget padding allegations against the leadership.

On whether he is preparing to leave the NNPP, Jibrin was non-committal but kept the door open.“Nothing is impossible. I can remain in NNPP, I can go back to APC, I can join ADC or PDP or even PRP. I can go to wherever I like. Any time I decide, I will make my position known,” he declared.

Though currently in the opposition, Jibrin is considered close to President Bola Tinubu, having served as Director-General of his campaign before defecting from APC to NNPP.

He has visited the President twice in recent weeks, saying the discussions centered on issues of national development.

Analysts, however, believe his renewed engagements with Tinubu could be part of wider moves by both Jibrin and Kwankwaso to realign with the ruling APC.