Political Crisis Deepens In NNPP As Kano Governor’s Aide Clashes With Federal Lawmaker

Internal Feud Threatens to Divide NNPP Leadership

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) is facing an escalating political crisis as tensions between key party members continue to rise. The latest confrontation involves Sunusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, Director-General of Media and Publicity to the Kano State Governor, and Hon. Tijjani Abdulkadir Jobe, a federal lawmaker representing Dawakin-Tofa, Tofa, and Rimin Gado Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Bature, in a strongly worded statement on his official Facebook page, openly challenged Jobe, warning that he was fully prepared for a political battle. His comments suggest that the party’s internal struggles may deepen, potentially threatening the stability of the NNPP in Kano State, its stronghold.

“Tell our brother, Hon. Jobe, that if he wants a fight with me, so be it. I swear, I do not fear him, and he knows it better than anyone,” Bature wrote.

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Bature Accuses Jobe of Poor Leadership

Beyond the personal rivalry, Bature took direct aim at Jobe’s leadership style, stating that political respect is earned through genuine service to the people.

“His respect among the people depends on doing the right thing. He holds their rights in his hands, and any elected official must fulfill their responsibilities,” he added.

Bature dismissed speculation that he was enduring political humiliation to position himself for a future election. Instead, he emphasized his commitment to public service and integrity.

“No one should assume that I am seeking office and will tolerate disgrace. I am a man of honour and accept destiny. I would rather withdraw from the race than compromise the dignity of our people,” he stated.

Jobe’s Political Journey and NNPP’s Growing Turmoil

Hon. Tijjani Abdulkadir Jobe, formerly a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), defected to the NNPP ahead of the 2023 general elections. His defection followed accusations that former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, manipulated the APC’s ticket in favour of his son, Abba Ganduje.

Running under the NNPP platform, Jobe successfully defeated Abba Ganduje with 52,457 votes to 44,809, securing his seat in the House of Representatives. However, tensions within the party have continued to mount since then.

In November 2024, Jobe played a key role in the removal of Ali Madaki as Deputy Minority Leader in the House of Representatives, a move that further divided the party. The latest clash between Jobe and Bature indicates that internal conflicts within the NNPP are far from over.

Will the NNPP Withstand the Internal Battle?

As Kano remains a battleground for political influence, analysts are closely watching whether the NNPP can navigate this growing crisis or if it will lead to a deeper split within the party.

One political observer, speaking anonymously to Punch, warned that if the dispute is not resolved quickly, it could escalate into a full-blown leadership struggle.

“The coming days will determine whether the NNPP can maintain its unity or if a full-blown political battle is on the horizon,” he noted.

With Kano being a critical stronghold for the NNPP, the ongoing conflict could have far-reaching consequences for the party’s future. Whether the party leadership will intervene to prevent further division remains to be seen.