Kawu Sumaila Fires Back: ‘Leaving NNPP Was the Right Move for My People’

Senator AbdulRahman Kawu Sumaila has explained that his defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was driven by his commitment to secure better opportunities and meaningful solutions for his constituents.

In an interview with BBC Hausa, Sumaila stated that such opportunities would have been out of reach had he remained in the NNPP. According to him, politics is about dialogue, negotiation, and securing the best outcomes for the people, which he believes the APC is better positioned to deliver.

Although he has exited the ruling party in Kano, Sumaila clarified that his relationship with the Kano State Government remains intact. He emphasized that his priority continues to be the development of his constituency, which he feels is more achievable under the APC platform.

“The decision to leave NNPP was not made lightly. It was based on the need to create real impact and bring benefits to my people,” he said. “Where we come from and what our communities need played a huge role in this move.”

Sumaila acknowledged NNPP’s role in previous elections, noting that the party made significant contributions — as did he. However, he stressed that his political shift would not derail any ongoing projects in Kano.

Reassuring his supporters, he expressed confidence that his move would result in improved economic opportunities for those he represents.

“I have no regrets about leaving the NNPP,” Sumaila concluded. “Everyone in politics is ultimately seeking the best path for their people—and that’s exactly what I’m doing.”