The National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, has dismissed claims of a faction within the party, reaffirming that his leadership remains the only legitimate one.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday in Abuja, Dr. Ahmed addressed concerns over recent reports of a faction led by Boniface Aniebonam, which claimed to have taken control of the party and held a convention that elected Agbo Major as the national chairman along with other national officers.
Ahmed clarified that the NNPP has not held any national convention recently and has not inaugurated a new National Working Committee (NWC).
According to him, the current NWC was constituted in 2020 under the supervision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in compliance with Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act, 2022.
He also accused former members of the party, allegedly backed by certain politicians fearful of the opposition as the 2027 elections approach, of trying to undermine the party’s credibility. He dismissed the Aniebonam-led faction as individuals who have repeatedly lost in court battles across the country and are now seeking relevance.
“Let me inform you and through you, the world, that there is only one NNPP under my leadership as its National Chairman, and our NWC, recognized by law and registered with INEC, is the true NNPP,” Dr. Ahmed declared.
He emphasized that the only official logo of the party, as recognized by law, features red, white, and red colors, with a book and academic cap at the center, and the slogan “Education for All.”
Ahmed also criticized the faction for defying court rulings, stating that an April 2024 Federal High Court ruling had already dismissed them as impostors.
He further condemned their recent gathering in Lagos as an illegal convention, despite a court injunction against it.
The NNPP Chairman called on INEC to ensure that political parties are monitored in accordance with the law, and he reiterated the importance of adhering to the rule of law in maintaining a healthy democracy.
He urged the media to properly represent the party by displaying the authentic logo, as per INEC’s approval, and dismissed the false claims surrounding the party’s leadership.
“We want to clarify once again that the NNPP does not operate from Apapa, and no convention was held in any hotel lobby in Lagos.
“Our NWC was inaugurated in April 2022 for a four-year term, and our headquarters remains in Abuja, in full compliance with the law.”