Kwankwaso Not Leaving NDC, Party Says

Intro: As the sun beats down on Lagos's bustling streets, and the cost of garri continues its relentless climb, many Nigerians find themselves wrestling with the harsh realities of daily survival. In this struggle, political drama often feels like a distant, extravagant show, far removed from the empty market stalls or the mounting school fees. Yet, these political manoeuvres, these whispers of discontent and power tussles within our parties, ripple directly through our lives, impacting everything from the price of petrol to the chances of our children finding a job. It's a stark reminder that what happens in Abuja or within party boardrooms ultimately dictates the rhythm of our very existence.

What Is Happening on the Ground

Recently, the political landscape was stirred by widespread reports suggesting that Rabiu Kwankwaso, the influential presidential running mate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), was on the verge of abandoning the party. These rumours, like a harmattan wind, swept across news platforms and into the vibrant discussions held in our local 'buka' joints. However, the NDC has moved swiftly to quell these speculations, with its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, unequivocally stating that Kwankwaso never issued such a threat. According to Director, these claims are nothing more than calculated attempts to 'demarket' the party, an insidious strategy he attributes to the ruling party and certain disgruntled elements within the opposition.

Speaking passionately in an interview, Director dismissed the reports as mere 'conjectures and media speculations,' designed to undermine the NDC's growing influence. The genesis of these rumours appears to be rooted in internal party dynamics within Kano State, a critical political battleground. It was widely reported that the former Kano State governor, Kwankwaso, had threatened to leave if candidates backed by his Kwankwasiyya faction were replaced. Indeed, the NDC had altered several candidate lists originally submitted by this powerful bloc, citing an alleged breach of a power-sharing agreement. A document signed by Kano State NDC Chairman, Hon. Hussaini Isah Mairiga, confirmed these changes, explaining they were necessary to align with an earlier understanding regarding the distribution of party positions and elective tickets between the established NDC structure and the Kwankwasiyya group. This internal shuffle, though explained as procedural, sparked the inferno of speculation, highlighting the delicate balance of power within our political formations.

‘Ah, these politicians and their unending quarrels! While we are here struggling to feed our children, they are busy fighting over who gets what ticket. Does this feed my family?’ – Mama Nkechi, a trader at Ogbete Market, Enugu.

The Main Issues

This episode is far more than just internal party squabble; it lays bare the deeper issues plaguing our democratic journey. At its heart lies the persistent challenge of internal party democracy. When candidate lists can be unilaterally altered based on 'power-sharing agreements' rather than transparent primaries or popular mandates, it raises serious questions about whose interests are truly being served. Is it the will of the people, or the will of powerful factions and political godfathers? Such opaque dealings breed cynicism among the electorate, eroding faith in the political process itself. The idea of a 'power-sharing agreement' often translates into backroom deals that sideline grassroots aspirations and the genuine democratic choices of party members.

Kano State, with its vast population and significant political leverage, serves as a microcosm of this struggle. The stakes are always incredibly high there, making any internal dispute within a major party a national talking point. When a formidable figure like Kwankwaso, who commands a loyal following, is perceived to be at odds with his party, it sends tremors through the entire political system. This focus on internal bickering diverts crucial attention and resources from the pressing national challenges that demand immediate and concerted efforts. Instead of brainstorming solutions for youth unemployment, crumbling infrastructure, or the cost of living crisis, parties are often caught up in an endless cycle of self-preservation and infighting, fueled by personal ambitions rather than collective progress.

The Impact on Daily Life

For the average Nigerian, these political theatrics are not just headlines; they are direct assaults on their aspirations and daily survival. When political parties are embroiled in internal battles, the government's focus invariably shifts from crucial policy implementation to crisis management and political manoeuvring. This directly translates to delays in budget approvals, stalled infrastructure projects, and a general lack of coherence in governance. The dilapidated roads in our villages remain unrepaired, the public schools continue to lack basic amenities, and our healthcare centres struggle to provide even essential services. Funds that should be used for development are often diverted or tied up in political patronage.

Consider the youth, the backbone of our nation, who are increasingly disillusioned. They see a system that prioritises power over progress, personal gain over public good. Each political crisis, each rumour of defection or internal sabotage, chips away at their already fragile hope. Many bright young minds, instead of channeling their energy into nation-building, are now actively seeking opportunities abroad – the phenomenon popularly known as 'japa'. This brain drain is a direct consequence of a political environment perceived as unstable, unpredictable, and ultimately, uncaring about their future. Local entrepreneurs and small business owners also suffer; policy inconsistencies, a climate of uncertainty, and a lack of clear economic direction make long-term planning and investment a gamble. The market woman selling her wares in Oshodi or Onitsha feels the pinch directly through rising inflation and a lack of purchasing power, consequences often linked to a government distracted by its own internal squabbles rather than the nation’s economic health.

What Needs to Be Done

The time has come for a fundamental re-evaluation of our political culture. First, political parties must embrace genuine internal democracy, where candidate selection is transparent, fair, and reflects the will of members, not just a select few. Power-sharing agreements, while sometimes necessary, must be open and designed to strengthen the party's democratic credentials, not undermine them. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) also has a crucial role to play in monitoring party affairs and ensuring adherence to democratic principles. Beyond institutional reforms, there is an urgent need for citizens, particularly the youth, to remain vigilant and actively engage beyond election cycles. We must demand accountability from our leaders, holding them to their promises and questioning every deviation from the path of national development.

Furthermore, our politicians must understand that leadership is a sacred trust, not a game of thrones. Prioritising personal ambition or factional interests over the collective welfare of millions is a betrayal. The focus should always be on good governance, robust policy-making, and addressing the existential challenges facing Nigerians. The media, too, carries a heavy responsibility to report objectively, expose political machinations, and give voice to the everyday struggles of our people, ensuring that the political class remains accountable to those they serve. Only through a concerted effort from all stakeholders – parties, electoral bodies, citizens, and the media – can we hope to steer our nation away from the precipice of political instability and towards a future defined by progress, unity, and shared prosperity.