By Staff Reporter
The (NNPP) has called on Nigeria’s security agencies, particularly the (DSS), to launch an immediate investigation into claims that former Kano State governor and senator, , was named on a United States terrorist watch list.
In a strongly worded statement issued Thursday night and signed by the party’s National Secretary, Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday, the NNPP said allegations linking any Nigerian political figure to terrorism must be treated with utmost seriousness, stressing that national security should take precedence over political considerations.
The statement asserted that no individual should be considered above the law when matters of security are involved and urged relevant agencies to “act without fear or favour.” It claimed that the party’s experience with Kwankwaso during his time in the NNPP revealed deep internal conflicts and accused him of attempting to dominate the party structure during his brief association with it.
According to the party, its founder, , provided Kwankwaso with a platform to contest the 2023 presidential election without financial obligation, but relations later deteriorated. The NNPP alleged that the former governor’s actions created divisions within the party and led to the eventual termination of a memorandum of understanding between the party leadership and the Kwankwasiyya political movement.
The statement also referenced past political disputes in Kano State following the 2023 elections, claiming that judicial proceedings had described factions associated with Kwankwaso in harsh terms. It further insisted that the NNPP had formally distanced itself from the former presidential candidate, stating he was expelled over alleged anti-party activities and corruption.
While the party said it could not independently verify the reported U.S. designation, it called on authorities in both Nigeria and the United States to clarify the situation. It specifically mentioned the and urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to ensure that any individual linked to terrorism financing or banditry faces thorough investigation.
The NNPP also appealed to the administration of President to intensify efforts against violent groups operating across the country. It warned against politicizing security issues and emphasized the need for decisive action to protect citizens from ongoing attacks by armed groups.
As of press time, there has been no official confirmation from U.S. authorities regarding the alleged terrorist listing, and no response had been issued by Kwankwaso or his political associates to the claims contained in the NNPP statement.
Security analysts say that any formal designation by foreign governments would typically be communicated through diplomatic and intelligence channels. They note that allegations of terrorism financing are highly sensitive and require verification through official processes.
Observers have called for restraint and due process, stressing that claims of this nature must be substantiated with credible evidence. They also urged political actors to avoid escalating tensions through unverified accusations.
The DSS has yet to publicly comment on the NNPP’s request for an investigation.
