Hashim Dugunrawa, the New Nigeria People’s Party chairman in Kano State has waived off the speculation around the purported defection of Senator Rabi’u Kwankwaso to the All Progressives Congress.
Speaking in a telephone interview with Tribune Online on Tuesday, Dugunrawa described the defection reports as unfounded but said the widespread nature of the rumour was a testament to Kwankwaso’s influence in Nigerian politics.
“The plan of the former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party to defect is just a rumour. However, we thank God that the rumour is being spread in our favour because it shows the world how popular Senator Kwankwaso is,” Dugunrawa said.
He noted that the strong wave of runout is a symbol of Kwakwanso’s political relevance and clean public image.
“People believe and are convinced that he (Senator Kwankwaso) is neither a thief nor a fraudster nor a political deadwood, but a person highly blessed with integrity and a focused politician,” he added.
He made reference to the former presidential candidate’s strong ties with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, nothing that the duo shared long-standing relationship.
“As you will recall, they were both governors at the same time. They were also lawmakers, as well as great personalities who governed two reputable states in the country. While President Tinubu was a former governor of Lagos State, Senator Kwankwaso was a former governor of Kano State. Both were also members of the Red Chamber,” he said.
“As for me, I cannot build something on a rumour.”
