The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), for his claim that the PDP is "dead." The PDP labelled Kwankwaso as self-centred and insensitive, especially in light of the current suffering under the existing administration.
PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba dismissed Kwankwaso's assertion as untrue and described him as "inconsequential."
Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor and NNPP's 2023 presidential candidate, expressed confidence in winning the 2027 presidential election during a visit to the NNPP Secretariat in Katsina. He claimed that the NNPP is well-prepared to secure the presidency, governorships, and other positions nationwide.
He argued that the current hardships faced by Nigerians highlight the NNPP's impending success and criticised both the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that the PDP is "dead" and the APC has "pushed itself into failure."
Kwankwaso also urged Nigerians, especially women and youths, not to be swayed by financial inducements in the upcoming elections.
In response, the PDP criticized Kwankwaso, stating: "It is inconceivable that a politician with control over just one state would claim that a party with 13 governors, numerous senators, members of the House of Representatives, and a strong presence nationwide is dead."
The PDP added that Kwankwaso's remarks demonstrate extreme selfishness and a lack of leadership. "At a time when the PDP and Nigerians are addressing severe hardships caused by APC policies--rising poverty, a plummeting Naira, and soaring fuel prices--Kwankwaso's focus on his personal ambitions is regrettable."
The PDP concluded that Kwankwaso's past political relevance was tied to his time in the PDP, and they see no value in engaging with his current claims.
Daily Trust reports Kwankwaso's claim that the main opposition party was dead is coming within weeks that the party's governorship candidate in the 2023 Kogi State election, Senator Dino Melaye made similar claims.