The former governor of Kano State and national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has cautioned party members against political betrayal.
Kwankwaso, who was the party’s presidential candidate, gave the warning while addressing supporters in Kano amid growing speculation over an alleged plan by some members to change political allegiance.
On Sunday, supporters of the former governor under the banner of the Kwankwasiyya Movement said they were considering a move to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in a bid to improve their leader’s chances in future presidential contests.
Speaking on behalf of the movement, Abdullahi Rogo, director-general of the protocol directorate at the Kano State Government House, said the proposed defection was in the best interest of Kano State.
Rogo also disclosed that the group had appealed to Governor Abba Yusuf and Kwankwaso to lead them into the ruling party.
However, in his response at the gathering, Kwankwaso said he was aware that a small number of individuals were contemplating crossing over to another party, adding that history has consistently shown that betrayal does not yield lasting political success.
“What I am seeing is here even beyond what I expected. Of course, I am aware that few, very few of you have decided to cross to the other side; don’t worry, whoever knows them should advise them,” he said.
“Nobody in this country or elsewhere has ever succeeded with betrayal; it doesn’t work that way. And if you are in doubt, look at our history from 1999 till date. All those who betrayed this group, like other groups, have never succeeded. I don’t even know one.
“They may succeed temporarily: day one, day two, day three, year one, year two. Some in this state were looking like they were succeeding for 10 years. If you ask them, ‘where are you now?’
“They are on the floor, flat on the ground. So, I’m telling you so that you can learn from other people’s experience.
“Don’t try to learn from their own experiences; some of the time, it could be very very expensive. So, work together as a family, support the ideology.”
The NNPP leader also praised loyal party members for turning out in large numbers despite attempts by some political actors to align with the state governor.
He said the strong turnout demonstrated that the NNPP continues to enjoy solid grassroots support across Kano State.