By Mercy Aikoye
The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) suffered a setback on Thursday as one of its members in the House of Representatives defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Yusuf Shittu Galambi, representing Gwaram Federal Constituency of Jigawa State, became the first NNPP member to join the ruling APC.
This development brings the total number of opposition party members who have joined the APC in the last six months to about 11. Galambi cited the lingering crisis within the NNPP, including litigations and leadership disputes, as the reason for his decision to leave the party.
According to Galambi, his constituents requested that he leave the NNPP and join the APC due to their dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership.
The NNPP has been plagued by internal conflicts, with the party’s founding fathers, who were expelled, claiming leadership.
On the other hand, supporters of former Kano Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwakwanso, maintain control of the party. The crisis within the NNPP has led to a decline in its fortunes, with Galambi’s defection being the latest blow.
Galambi’s decision to join the APC is seen as a strategic move to align himself with the ruling party. The APC has been actively courting members from opposition parties, and Galambi’s defection is a significant gain for the party.
The NNPP’s leadership crisis has been ongoing for several months, with no clear resolution in sight. The party’s inability to resolve its internal conflicts has led to a loss of confidence among its members and supporters.
As the NNPP struggles to regain its footing, the APC is likely to continue its efforts to poach members from opposition parties. The ongoing defections are expected to have significant implications for the country’s political landscape.
