- Safiu Kehinde
Kano state lawmaker, Abdulmumin Jibrin, has reaffirmed his stance on his criticism of the New Nigerian Peoples’ Party (NNPP) after his expulsion by the party’s leadership.
NPO Reported that Abdulmumin was expelled by the NNPP over alleged anti-party activities and failure to meet financial obligations to the party.
The lawmaker representing the Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, was sanctioned for repeated public criticisms of the party and its leadership, especially over his recent interview.
He was accused of openly aligning with political opponents of former Kano Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
As contained in a statement issued by the Chairman of the Kano NNPP Chapter, Hashim Dungurawa, the party also vowed to take legal action against Abdulmumin for failing to pay his mandatory dues.
Reacting in a statement issued on his official X handle, the lawmaker expressed his surprise with his expulsion by the party.
Abdulmumin however maintained that he stand by all the statements he made in all his interviews about the party.
While noting that his recent interview does not warrant such heavy penalty, the ex-lawmaker accused the NNPP of not giving him a fair hearing.
“I strongly believe the contents of the interview I granted few days ago in English and Hausa should not warrant such heavy penalty because it is in tandem with the core principles of our party and movement which allows for dissenting views overtly or covertly.
“I expected the party to pick lessons from the interview. For the purpose of emphasis, I stand by all the statements I made in the interviews.
“No invitation was extended to me to defend or explain myself by any organ of the party and in the process, neglecting the very important principle of fair hearing, due process and justice that the NNPP cry out loud and demand from others.
“Even under military dictatorship, an accused is subjected to a court martial.
“Perhaps, if the appropriate processes were followed, the need for such harsh decision to force me out of a party and family I love so dearly may not be necessary.” He said.
While accepting the decision of the party in good faith and without grudges, Abdulmumin vowed to pay his outstanding dues as he urged them not to go to court.
In reaction to the NNPP Chairman’s claim that he has no value to the party, Abdulmumin accused the party of treating people with disrespect.
“On the issue of non-payment of my dues, I am appealing to the party that there is no need to go to court as I have never refused to pay my dues. I respectfully request the party to send me the invoice, and I will promptly pay.
“I have always advocated for harmonious relationships in Kano and Nigeria, so I am appealing to NNPP to stay on the part of decorum without personal attacks or throwing abuses and insults as we part ways. For me, relationship will continue irrespective of party affiliation.
“The party’s position on political value is no news to me. The party does not believe anybody has political value and come short in treating people with the respect they deserve at various levels.
“This case is a clear instance. I am grateful to the Almighty for whatever value I have, no matter how little and will be more than glad to invest it where it will be appreciated with dignity rather than a place where no matter what you bring on board, you are a nobody, and you brought nothing!” He said.
The ex-lawmaker however maintained that he holds no grudges with any of his supporters who decides to remain at the NNPP while welcoming those willing to leave the party with him.
“I welcome all my supporters who wish to join me in my new journey.
“But for those who chose to remain in NNPP, I hold no grudges against them, and I look forward to keeping a peaceful and harmonious relationship with them both at the local, state and national levels.
“Finally, I will carefully weigh all the options before me as I decide on my next political home.” He added.