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Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso reinforced the opposition camp yesterday with his formal defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
24 hours after resigning from rom the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
He was received into the party at his Miller Road residence in Kano. He receved his party registrations card.
National Chairman David mark, National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola and party saltwart Peter Obi led dignitaries to the ceremony witnessed by a larege crowed of one-time Supporters
He said he aligned with the party because it offers the best opportunity to drive meaningful change.
“New dawn; we are ADC,” he posted on his official X handle yesterday.
Other APC leaders at the event are Senator Aminu Tambuwal and former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi.
They were joined by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former APC national chairman John Odigie Oyegun, former Cross River State governor Liyel Imoke and Senator Dino Melaye.
Addressing the gathering, Kwankwaso cited the need for “strategic realignment” in Nigeria’s politics.
He directed all members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement nationwide to register with the ADC and participate in party activities.
“ADC offers the best opportunity to drive meaningful change, particularly in Kano State,” he said.
He reiterated his commitment to democratic values, good governance, and the collective aspirations of Nigerians.
Kwankwaso thanked the NNPP leadership and supporters, acknowledging the difficulty of his decision and the role the party played in his 2023 presidential bid.
Senator Mark welcomed Kwankwaso into the party, calling it a “special day in our journey to make Nigeria a better country and a more united nation.”
Mark said the move signals the birth of a new political force determined to challenge the APC, positioning the ADC as a rallying platform for a broad national movement focused on inclusion, accountability, and people centred governance.
He criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), alleging attempts to weaken opposition voices and concentrate power.
He warned that Nigeria’s multiparty democracy is at risk.
“His Excellency, Dr. Musa Rabiu Kwankwaso, I welcome you and millions of your supporters to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“Today, we have come together in unity of purpose, conviction, and vision.
“Your coming to ADC is not merely a political statement, it is a deliberate response to the clarion call by well meaning Nigerians for all opposition leaders to be united and present a common front to protect our democracy,” Mark said.
The former Senate President also extended an invitation to other parties, civil society and youth groups to join the ADC’s movement, underlining the importance of unity in addressing national challenges.
ADC reports surge in membership
The ADC described Kwankwaso’s move as a boost to its political base ahead of future elections.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the development reflects growing demand for an alternative political platform.
“This reflects a growing recognition that Nigeria needs a new direction, and that the time had come for leaders and citizens alike to come together around a credible alternative that puts people first,” the statement said.
The party said Kwankwaso’s entry brings governance experience and grassroots support.
“His experience in governance, his strong grassroots connection, and his ability to bring people together make him a valuable part of this collective effort.”
According to the ADC, Kwankwaso has also directed members of his political movement to align with the party, describing it as part of a broader coalition for change.
The party said the development has already triggered increased interest among Nigerians, noting that its online registration platform recorded a surge in new members within 24 hours of the announcement.
It added that the influx signals growing alignment with what it described as a new political direction.
NNPP to join coalition
The NNPP said it would align with the ADC for the presidential election.
NNPP National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, stated this during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, ahead of the 2027 general polls.
He said despite Kwankwaso’s defection, the NNPP would still participate in the next general elections.
“The NNPP will continue to contest elections. Although at that level, we will be in alignment with the ADC towards the presidential election and maybe some of the national elections, but we are going to have candidates down the ballot,” Johnson said.
THE NATION.
