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By Oscar Okhifo
Kano Lawmaker, Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa has officially quit the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) after being expelled over alleged anti-party activities and unpaid membership dues.
In a statement personally signed by him, Jibrin expressed shock at the party’s decision and said he was leaving to join a platform where his contributions would be appreciated.
“It came as a surprise and a rude shock, my sudden expulsion from the NNPP. I strongly believe the contents of the interview I granted a few days ago in English and Hausa should not warrant such a heavy penalty because it is in tandem with the core principles of our party and movement, which allows for dissenting views overtly or covertly.
“I expected the party to pick lessons from the interview. For emphasis, I stand by all the statements I made in the interviews, ” he said.
The lawmaker criticized the party for not inviting him to defend or explain himself, saying it ignores the principles of fair hearing, due process, and justice that NNPP claims to uphold.
“Even under military dictatorship, an accused is subjected to a court martial. Perhaps, if the appropriate processes were followed, the need for such a harsh decision to force me out of a party and family I love so dearly may not have been necessary,” he added.
Jibrin maintained that while he would have preferred to stay in the NNPP and continue serving the people despite differences, he respects the party’s decision and wishes to leave peacefully.
“I would have viewed this action as null and void as it failed to follow due process or coming from a factional group of the party and tested in court. I will rather wish the party well and go in peace. I beg the party to allow me also go in peace.”
Regarding the allegations of defaulting on membership dues, Jibrin stated:
“On the issue of non-payment of my dues, I am appealing to the party that there is no need to go to court as I have never refused to pay my dues. I respectfully request the party to send me the invoice and I will promptly pay.”
He also highlighted his commitment to maintaining harmonious relationships regardless of political affiliation:
“I have always advocated for harmonious relationships in Kano and Nigeria. Relationship will continue irrespective of party affiliation.”
Jibrin further criticized the party for its treatment of members:
“The party’s position on political value is no news to me. This case is a clear instance. I am grateful to the Almighty for whatever value I have, no matter how little, and I will be more than glad to invest it where it will be appreciated with dignity rather than a place where no matter what you bring on board, you are a nobody.”
The lawmaker thanked NNPP for providing a platform to advance his political interests:
“While thanking the party for the support I enjoyed during our sojourn, I am proud of my contributions to the party and movement over the years. Whether it is acknowledged or not, I am happy enough with Allah SWT as witness.”
He also invited his supporters to join him in his next political journey while maintaining a cordial relationship with those who remain in NNPP.
“Finally, I will carefully weigh all the options before me as I decide on my next political home. SO HELP ME GOD.”
The expulsion of Jibrin was initially announced by the Kano State NNPP Chairman, Hashim Dungurawa, citing refusal to pay membership dues and “anti-party activities,” and threatening legal action to retrieve the dues. However, a factional chairman of the party, Jibril Doguwa, and the National Secretary, Oginni Olapesi Sunday, dismissed Dungurawa’s announcement as meaningless, null, and void, noting that Dungurawa himself had been expelled from the party.