Party says accusations linking Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to terrorism are politically motivated
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has written to the United States Congress to defend its 2023 presidential candidate, , following allegations linking him to terrorism and religious freedom violations.
The party’s National Chairman, , disclosed the move during an interview, explaining that the letter was sent to counter what the party described as misleading and politically motivated claims against the former governor of Kano State.
According to Ajuji, the NNPP became concerned after Kwankwaso was specifically named in the allegations while other references were made to organizations. He noted that the party considered the claim controversial and felt compelled to respond directly to U.S. lawmakers to clarify the situation.
He explained that the party’s decision to reach out to the U.S. Congress was aimed at presenting what it described as the true record of Kwankwaso, stressing that the former presidential candidate has no links to terrorism or extremist activities.
The controversy is connected to a proposed U.S. legislation known as the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, introduced by lawmakers including and . The bill seeks to address concerns about religious persecution in Nigeria and recommends possible sanctions against individuals and groups accused of violating religious freedoms.
Reacting to the development, the NNPP maintained that Kwankwaso has consistently promoted peaceful coexistence among different religious and ethnic groups during his time in public office, particularly while serving as governor of Kano State.
The party expressed confidence that once members of the U.S. Congress review the explanations and clarifications provided in the letter, they would realize that the allegations against Kwankwaso are unfounded and politically driven.
