Dare Babalola
Abdulmumin Jibrin, the lawmaker representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has announced his exit from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
The announcement was made hours after his sudden expulsion from the party.
The NNPP faction loyal to former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso expelled Jibrin, citing alleged anti-party activities and non-payment of dues. Jibrin described the decision as shocking and unjustified.
In an official statement on Saturday, Jibrin said the interview he granted recently in both English and Hausa should not have attracted such a “heavy penalty.” He noted that dissenting views were part of the party’s core principles.
Jibrin accused the party of violating the principles of fair hearing and due process by expelling him without giving him the opportunity to defend himself.
“No invitation was extended to me to explain myself. Even under a military dictatorship, an accused is subjected to a court-martial,” he said.
The lawmaker stressed that he would have preferred to remain in the NNPP despite differences. However, he said he accepted the party’s decision in good faith and would not challenge it in court.
“I would have loved to stay in the NNPP. But for the respect I have for the party and its members, I will go in peace. I beg the party to also allow me to go in peace,” Jibrin added.
On allegations of non-payment of dues, Jibrin insisted he never refused to fulfill his obligations. He said he was ready to clear any outstanding payments if presented with an invoice.
“There is no need to go to court. I respectfully request the party to send me the invoice, and I will promptly pay,” he said.
Jibrin took a swipe at the party’s leadership style, accusing the NNPP of failing to value its members. “The party does not believe anybody has political value and comes short in treating people with respect. No matter what you bring on board, you are a nobody,” he said.
Despite his criticism, Jibrin thanked the NNPP for the support he enjoyed during his stay. He called on his supporters to join him in his “new journey” while maintaining peaceful ties with those who choose to remain in the party.
Jibrin concluded by saying he would carefully weigh his options before deciding on his next political home. “I welcome all my supporters who wish to join me in my new journey… I will carefully weigh all the options before me as I decide on my next political home. So help me God,” he said.
The development marks another major twist in Kano politics, where the NNPP is battling internal schisms between the Kwankwasiyya faction and other stakeholders. Jibrin’s exit comes just months after he hinted that he might leave the party, fueling speculation about a possible return to the APC.
Jibrin’s defection is expected to have significant implications for the NNPP and the political landscape in Kano State.
