Buba Galadima, a chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has dismissed suggestions that the party should have formed a coalition in the last election to increase its chances of victory.
In a no-nonsense response during an interview with ARISE NEWS on Tuesday, he made it clear that the NNPP is driven by ideology, not political desperation.
Galadima insisted that the NNPP was not willing to compromise its principles just to win elections.
“We are a party of ideology. We are a party of principle. We don’t just go into coalition for the sake of it because we want power at all costs. We are content with the platform we have. One day, we can grow this party and win the national election.”
This stance has drawn criticism, especially given the NNPP’s limited influence beyond certain regions of the country. However, Galadima remains adamant that the party does not need alliances to expand its reach.
The NNPP has often been labeled a regional party, with its strongest base in the North. When questioned about the party’s presence in other regions, Galadima pushed back against the narrative that NNPP lacks nationwide relevance.
“We have individuals across the country, we have people who believe in us. They may be a minority in some parts of the country, but they still believe in our ideals.”
Asked specifically about Lagos, a crucial political battleground, he pointed out that NNPP has structures there, even if they are not dominant.
“We have influence all over. We have an office in Lagos, we have people in Lagos. The mere fact that they are not the majority doesn’t mean we don’t have that influence.”
The NNPP has also been plagued by reports of internal divisions, with multiple factions laying claim to leadership. However, Galadima dismissed these concerns as exaggerated.
“You say NNPP is in disarray—that is only from your own perspective. Maybe those who hold this view are the ones encouraging disarray in political parties. I don’t believe so.”
He further clarified that regardless of factional claims, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) only recognises one legitimate NNPP.
“Even if some people claim to have one million factions, if they are not recognised by INEC, then they are not a political party because they cannot contest elections. The NNPP recognised by INEC is the one with the logo of the academic cap and the book, with the red, white, red flag. That is the authentic NNPP.”
Melissa Enoch
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