Kano NDC resists Kwankwaso’s grip on party structure

Power struggle brews in Kano as NDC leadership pushes back against perceived attempts to dominate party machinery following a wave of high-profile defections.

The Kano State Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Rabiu musa Kwankwaso has firmly rejected suggestions that the party’s structure in the state will be handed over to former governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, declaring that the party remains committed to internal democracy and due process amid rising political realignments.

Speaking against the backdrop of growing speculation following Kwankwaso’s recent defection to the NDC, the chairman said the party would not compromise its established leadership framework or sideline loyal members who have built the party from the ground up. He emphasized that while the NDC welcomes new entrants, it will not do so at the expense of its existing structure.

“We respect Kwankwaso’s political stature and his decision to join our party, but let it be clear that we will not surrender the party structure in Kano to anyone,” he said. “The NDC is not built around individuals; it is built on principles, institutions, and the collective efforts of its members.”

The development comes as the NDC continues to witness an influx of high-profile politicians ahead of the next electoral cycle, raising concerns among grassroots leaders about potential displacement.

Kwankwaso, a former presidential candidate and influential northern political figure, is believed to command a significant following in Kano and beyond, making his entry into the party a significant political shift.

However, the Kano chairman insisted that the party’s constitution provides clear guidelines for leadership and decision-making, which must be adhered to regardless of political influence. He noted that any attempt to impose leadership or override party organs would undermine the credibility of the NDC.

“Our members have worked tirelessly to establish this party in Kano. They deserve respect and recognition, not displacement,” he added. “We are open to collaboration, but it must be within the framework of the party’s rules.”

Party insiders say tensions have been quietly building between existing NDC stakeholders and supporters of the new entrants, particularly over control of party machinery at the state level. While national leaders have called for unity and integration, local actors appear wary of what they describe as “political takeovers.”

Analysts note that the situation reflects a broader challenge facing emerging political coalitions in Nigeria—balancing the influence of heavyweight defectors with the interests of longstanding members. In many cases, failure to manage such dynamics has led to internal crises and weakened electoral prospects.

Efforts by the national leadership of the NDC to harmonise interests are ongoing, with sources indicating that a reconciliation committee may be set up to address grievances and ensure a smooth integration process.

Despite the tensions, the Kano chairman expressed optimism about the party’s future, stressing that unity can still be achieved if all stakeholders act in good faith.

“We believe in building a strong, inclusive party that can offer Nigerians a credible alternative,” he said. “But that can only happen when fairness, transparency, and respect for due process are upheld.”