Crisis looms in Kano NDC over alleged structure takeover

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By Henry Umoru, Abuja

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A fresh crisis is brewing in the Kano chapter of the New Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as foundation members of the party have accused its presidential running mate ahead of the 2027 elections, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, of allegedly hijacking party structures and excluding other members from elective opportunities.

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The aggrieved members claimed that the former Kano State governor’s actions and statements have undermined the unity, stability and growth of the party, particularly during the state congresses where disagreements reportedly emerged over control of the party structure in Kano State.

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In a statement signed by the NDC North-West Vice Chairman, Mohammed Rabiu Serina, and the Kano State Chairman, Hussaini Isa Mariga, the members said a resolution was earlier reached after the intervention of the party’s National Leader, Seriake Dickson, which allocated 60 percent of the party structure in Kano State to Kwankwaso and his supporters, while the remaining 40 percent was retained by the party leadership.

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They alleged that despite the agreement, Kwankwaso later refused to allow access to nomination forms to party members outside his political movement, known as Kwankwasiyya, effectively excluding other aspirants from contesting various elective positions.

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According to them, nomination forms for State House of Assembly, House of Representatives, Senatorial seats and governorship positions were not distributed to party members outside the faction loyal to him, contrary to earlier agreements.

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The group further claimed that repeated appeals by party leaders and interventions by the National Working Committee failed to resolve the dispute, despite efforts to ensure inclusiveness and fair participation.

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They maintained that the party belongs to all its members and should not be controlled by any individual or political movement, insisting that internal democracy and inclusiveness must guide all decisions on nominations and party activities.

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The statement also noted that prior to Kwankwaso’s entry into the party, foundation members had independently built the Kano structure and continued to fund party activities, stressing that contributions and loyalty should be recognized in party decisions.

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The aggrieved members urged the national leadership of the party to intervene and ensure that the principles of fairness, consultation and collective ownership are upheld.

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They reaffirmed their willingness to work within the party framework but insisted that cooperation must be based on mutual respect and adherence to agreed structures.

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