2027: NNPP adopts consensus, pardons expelled members
NNPP Adopts Consensus Candidates and Pardons Expelled Members Ahead of 2027 Elections
LAGOS — The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has announced it will adopt a consensus approach for selecting candidates for the upcoming 2027 general elections. This decision was conveyed by the party’s founder, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, during a statement released on Tuesday.
Dr. Aniebonam, who also serves as the Chairman of the party’s Board of Trustees, stated that all expelled members of the party have been pardoned and are welcome to return. He emphasized that the party’s aim is to ensure that credible candidates have the opportunity to participate in the elections without the influence of financial politics.
“Under the circumstances, Nigerians committed to the ideals of a new Nigeria, who prefer to avoid the expenditure associated with primary elections, should come forward,” Aniebonam said. He also highlighted that women candidates will benefit from waived nomination fees, only needing to cover administrative costs.
The party has assured its current elected officials that they will receive automatic nominations for their respective positions in the upcoming elections. However, the selection of presidential and other elective candidates will be made through a consensus process.
Aniebonam noted that the party’s previous convention pledged these automatic nominations, regardless of the conduct of some members. He addressed the issue of suspended members, recalling past internal conflicts that led to expulsions for anti-party activities.
“By virtue of the inherent powers conferred upon me by the NNPP constitution, I hereby declare a general pardon for all members who acted unconstitutionally due to undue influence,” Aniebonam stated.
He urged all former members who left the party under contentious circumstances to report to the National Working Committee to reaffirm their loyalty. He added that those who may have defected to other parties due to ongoing legal issues can return before the deadlines established by the new Electoral Act.
Aniebonam clarified that the Screening Committee, in consultation with the party’s leadership, will determine the conditions for re-admittance. He reaffirmed his role in overseeing the party’s administration according to a recent court ruling.
The NNPP founder invited prospective candidates who wish to be part of the party’s vision for Nigeria to join within the stipulated timeframe. He also addressed concerns regarding delays from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding the upload of elected officials to its national server, asserting that the court’s directive would ultimately be followed.
Incoming members were advised to ensure proper resignation from any current political affiliations to comply with the Electoral Act, which prohibits dual party membership. All resignations must be documented both manually and electronically.
(NAN)
