Kano lawmaker Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa has formally announced his exit from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), hours after the Kwankwasiyya loyalist faction of the party expelled him.
In a statement personally signed and released on Saturday, Kofa described his removal as a “rude shock” but said he has accepted the decision “in good faith” while urging the party to let him depart without further issues.
“While I would have loved to stay in the NNPP and continue my service to our people and country despite differences on some issues, the party has made and announced a decision. I am therefore obliged to accept the decision in good faith and without grudges. I beg the party to allow me also go in peace,” he said.
Kofa, who represents Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, defended his words during a TV interviews which led to his expulsion, insisting that nothing he said amounted to anti-party activity.
“I strongly believe the contents of the interview I granted a few days ago should not warrant such a heavy penalty. It is in tandem with the core principles of our party which allow for dissenting views. For the purpose of emphasis, I stand by all the statements I made,” he added.
He also faulted the manner he was expelled, noting that no opportunity was given to him to defend himself.
“No invitation was extended to me to explain myself by any organ of the party, thereby neglecting the principle of fair hearing, due process and justice that the NNPP itself demands from others,” he said.
On the allegation of non-payment of dues, Kofa denied ever refusing to pay, saying he was willing to settle any outstanding obligations. “I respectfully request the party to send me the invoice and I will promptly pay. There is no need to go to court over such matters,” he said.
Despite the fallout, Kofa expressed gratitude for the support he enjoyed during his time in the NNPP and called for civility as both sides part ways.
“I am appealing to NNPP to stay on the path of decorum without personal attacks or abuses as we part ways. For me, relationships will continue irrespective of party affiliation,” he implored.
Kofa, who once served as Director-General of the Tinubu support groups before joining the NNPP in 2022, said he would consult widely before announcing his next political move.“I will carefully weigh all the options before me as I decide on my next political home. So help me God,” he concluded.
