The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) is grappling with internal strife as two factions vie for control amid the party’s rising prominence. Following its notable successes in the 2023 elections, including a fourth-place finish in the presidential race and victories in Kano state, the NNPP is now embroiled in a leadership battle that threatens to undermine its progress.
Factions and Leadership Struggle
The conflict centers around two primary camps: one led by Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, the party’s founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), and the other led by Senator Musa Kwankwaso and his supporters. The departure of Professor Rufai Alkali has exacerbated the situation, leading to a split with both factions claiming legitimacy.
The Kwankwaso faction, led by Dr. Ahmed Ajuji, has established its own executive committee, while the Aniebonam faction, under Dr. Agbo Major, has its parallel leadership. Both groups have taken actions to expel or suspend members of the opposing faction, leading to conflicting court orders and a deepening rift.
Controversial Changes
One of the major flashpoints in the dispute has been the recent change in the party’s logo and constitution. On July 12, 2024, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) approved a new logo and constitution favored by Kwankwaso’s camp. This decision has been met with strong opposition from Aniebonam, who accuses both INEC and Kwankwaso’s faction of disregarding court orders and undermining the party’s foundational principles.
Aniebonam has criticized INEC for its involvement, arguing that the commission should not have approved the changes without verifying the party’s registration documents. He contends that the amendments are invalid and that Kwankwaso’s actions represent a betrayal of the party’s original mission.
Response from Kwankwaso’s Camp
Kwankwaso’s camp, represented by National Publicity Secretary Ladipo Johnson, has denied Aniebonam’s allegations. Johnson argues that INEC’s actions were in accordance with the law and that Aniebonam’s claims are unfounded. He asserts that the court has already ruled against Aniebonam and that the founder’s expulsion from the party is legitimate. Johnson also pointed to previous legal precedents to support their position.
INEC’s Stance
INEC has defended its actions, with Chief Press Secretary Rotimi Oyekanmi stating that the commission followed due process in approving the changes to the party’s logo and constitution. Oyekanmi emphasized that INEC is not involved in fueling the party’s internal disputes and called for a resolution to the ongoing court cases.
IPAC’s Intervention
In response to the crisis, Alhaji Yusuf Dantalle, Chairman of the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), has offered to mediate and resolve the dispute. Dantalle expressed confidence that IPAC could facilitate dialogue between the factions and help restore unity within the NNPP.
The question remains whether IPAC can effectively address the divisions within the NNPP and help the party navigate its internal challenges while preparing for future elections. The resolution of this conflict will be crucial for the NNPP’s ability to maintain its political momentum and strengthen its position ahead of the 2027 elections.
