Former NNPP National Chairman, Rufai, leaves the party

Former National Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Prof. Rufai Ahmed, has resigned from the organisation.

In a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja, Rufai said that he had “widely discussed” his decision to resign.

Observers view Rufai’s decision as a serious setback for the party, which has been severely damaged by a major crisis.

The former national chairman, who left his position as leader on March 31, claimed he offered to step down at the time in order to give the party a chance to advance by bringing in fresh perspectives.

“When I stepped down as national chairman, I wanted the NNPP to act quickly to build on the undeniable victories won in the general elections of 2023 and get ready for subsequent elections.

“Unfortunately, over the past few weeks, the party has become mired in a series of unnecessary crises and disputes that have resulted in the suspension and re-suspension of several influential figures.

“There has been a bitter press battle, accusations and denials, which unhappily has split the party into groups.

“We established a solid political structure across the country after the historic merger of the party in March 2022, working with other clever, highly dedicated, diligent, and devoted members.

“The National Working Committee helped our members come together and built a strong platform that fielded contenders for all elected posts. Being a member of that dream team makes me proud.

It has been noted that the party secured several seats in the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly in less than a year, despite the short window of time between the merger and the general elections.

“Shortly after the general election, I willingly resigned as the national chairman to make place for new faces and innovative ideas that would help the party move forward.

“As far as I was concerned, I never accepted the sit-tight leadership mentality or the notion that I was necessary.

“We sought to erect a brand-new Nigeria on a firm foundation of commitment, perseverance, hard labour, and selflessness.

The recent unsettling events that gave rise to rival factions are truly regrettable and counterproductive.

“Unfortunately, it seems as though there will be no end to this pointless war of attrition.

“It appears that the warring factions have an unspoken agreement not to allow the party’s elders to negotiate in an effort to find a long-term resolution to the conflicts.

“This is undesirable and bad for any political party’s development and survival, especially a young organisation like the NNPP.

He declared, “After careful consideration, I hereby announce my immediate withdrawal from the NNPP, and I pray and wish the party the best of luck in her future endeavours.”

To “remain calm and resolute while awaiting communications on future developments and our next direction,” Rufai urged friends, partners, and supporters.

Shortly after Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso, the party’s nominee for president in 2023, was kicked out of the party, Rufai announced his departure.

The party’s founder, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, had previously been ousted from the NNPP by another faction.

In leaving the NNPP, Rufai joins a large number of other prominent party figures.

Sen. Othman Hunkuyi, the party’s candidate for governor of Kaduna State, is one of them. (NAN)