The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has confirmed it will not award an automatic presidential ticket to any aspirant ahead of the 2027 general elections, as announced by its Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr Boniface Aniebonam. Speaking in Lagos on Wednesday, Aniebonam emphasized that every candidate seeking the party’s flag bearer position must undergo a rigorous screening process to evaluate competence, loyalty, and electoral strength. The decision stems from the party’s experience in the 2023 presidential election, which it described as a misstep due to lack of structured candidate selection. Aniebonam stressed that the NNPP will not repeat past mistakes and will instead ensure a transparent and merit-based process for choosing its 2027 presidential candidate.
The NNPP leader revealed that the party has already identified three serious presidential aspirants who will be assessed through the screening process. He noted that after the evaluation, one candidate will emerge as the party’s official flag bearer. In compliance with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines, the party has uploaded a placeholder presidential candidate on the commission’s portal, pending the conclusion of the internal screening. This move underscores the party’s commitment to adhering to electoral regulations while preparing for the upcoming elections.
Aniebonam attributed the party’s delayed preparations for the 2027 elections to prolonged litigation and internal disputes involving former presidential candidate Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso and members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement. He explained that legal battles aimed at preventing Kwankwaso from taking control of the party caused significant setbacks. The internal crisis also led to the defection of some members to other political parties. Despite these challenges, Aniebonam affirmed that the NNPP remains focused and determined to field strong candidates who can make an impact in the next election.
The party’s upcoming emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting will address key issues, including the scheduling of the national convention, review of concessions for certain aspirant categories, and a reduction in nomination fees. The NEC will also deliberate on proposed legal action against INEC, which Aniebonam described as “sad and regrettable” for allegedly failing to comply with court orders. He urged former members to return to the party, assuring them of equal opportunities and a fair nomination process. Female aspirants and persons with disabilities will benefit from special concessions, and the party remains open to collaboration with other political groups that share its ideology.
With these measures in place, the NNPP is positioning itself for a more organized and inclusive approach to the 2027 elections, aiming to build a stronger political foundation and increase its chances of success.
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