El-Rufai Sparks Political Earthquake, Holds Talks With Kwankwaso Amid APC Switch Speculation!

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, met with the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, in Abuja on Friday, amid growing speculation that Kwankwaso could soon defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to Leadership Newspaper, the two political heavyweights were seen together after the Jumaat prayers at a mosque in Abuja. El-Rufai, who was in the company of his eldest son, Bello El-Rufai, was seen exchanging pleasantries with Kwankwaso, the former Governor of Kano State.

The meeting has fueled speculations that Kwankwaso, along with his strong political base within the NNPP, may soon declare support for the APC.

Recent developments suggest that Kwankwaso and the NNPP are actively exploring new political alliances, with possibilities including a partnership with the APC or joining the opposition coalition spearheaded by Atiku Abubakar.

A source familiar with the matter, who spoke anonymously to Punch, revealed that it was unlikely for Kwankwaso and the NNPP to contest the 2027 elections alone, as they did in 2023.

“What I can confirm is that Kwankwaso and the NNPP will not go solo like they did in the 2023 elections. Given the political climate, they are considering either aligning with President Tinubu’s APC or forming an alliance with Atiku, El-Rufai, and others,” the source said.

The NNPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, also acknowledged during an interview with Punch that discussions about future alliances are ongoing.

He stated,

“In the NNPP, based on our history as the Kwankwasiyya movement, we usually wait until midterm — which will be May 29th — before making major political moves. That marks two years into the administration and two years left to go. Proper politicking will begin then.

Yes, we are in talks, but I prefer not to disclose the specific groups or individuals involved for now.

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While there are numerous media reports suggesting that Senator Kwankwaso’s move to the APC is imminent, such narratives are often fueled by individuals pushing their own agendas.”