Kano, Nigeria – Federal lawmaker Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa has officially announced his departure from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), just hours after the Kwankwasiyya faction of the party declared his expulsion.
In a personally signed statement released on Saturday, Kofa described the expulsion as a “rude shock” but said he accepted the decision “in good faith”. He urged the party to allow him to leave in peace, without further acrimony.
“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 recent television interview which reportedly triggered his expulsion. He insisted that none of his remarks amounted to anti-party activities and were consistent with the NNPP’s stated principles of open dialogue and internal democracy.
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“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 stated.
The lawmaker also criticised the procedure that led to his removal, arguing that he was denied a fair hearing.
“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 added.
Kofa further responded to allegations of non-payment of party dues, denying any refusal to meet his financial 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 appreciation for the support he received during his time in the NNPP and called for restraint and mutual respect moving forward.
“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 noted.
A former Director-General of the Tinubu Support Groups before joining the NNPP in 2022, Kofa said he would take time to consult widely before deciding on 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.
