‘My Principles Are Not for Sale’ – Kwankwaso Reacts to Defection Rumours

Former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has dismissed speculation linking him to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting he remains guided by principle rather than personal gain.

Kwankwaso spoke on Friday at his residence in Kano while addressing supporters, shortly after reports emerged that Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, alongside several local government chairmen, federal lawmakers and political aides, had resigned from the NNPP.

Reacting to the political shake-up, Kwankwaso said his decades-long involvement in politics had always been driven by the desire to uplift ordinary Nigerians, not to chase material rewards.

“I am not for sale. My political convictions are what keep me standing. If personal benefit was my goal, I would have chosen a different path long ago, and you would not find me here today,” he told supporters.

He explained that the strength of the Kwankwasiyya Movement lies in shared values and collective sacrifice, not financial inducement.

“What sustains this movement is our common belief. If greed was my motivation, I would have taken the money and disappeared, and none of you would be standing with me today,” he said.

Looking ahead, the former Kano governor urged his followers to begin early mobilisation for the 2027 general elections, warning them against complacency in the face of growing political pressure.

“We need people who are committed and ready to stand by the truth. Do not give up, because our objectives will be achieved in time,” he said.

Kwankwaso also expressed concern over recent political developments in Kano, describing them as deliberate attempts to dismantle years of collective effort.

“Considering what is happening in Kano now, preparation must start immediately. There are forces determined to destroy what we have built over time,” he cautioned.

Reaffirming his stance, Kwankwaso pledged to remain resolute in his advocacy for the masses.

“My mission has always been to fight for ordinary people. I will not align myself with those who exploit the masses for their own benefit,” he declared.