The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has cleared the air on claims that Rabiu Kwankwaso, its presidential candidate, is considering shelving his ambition and backing other candidates for the 2023 elections.
Reacting to the reports, Ladipo Johnson, spokesperson of the Rabiu Kwankwaso presidential campaign organisation, said there was no iota of truth in such claims.
He dismissed the speculation, asserting that his principal is in the race to win.
Johnson was reacting to speculations that Kwankwaso was considering backing either Atiku Abubakar, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, or Bola Tinubu, standard bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He said Kwankwaso would contest the 2023 presidential election to the end as he joined the race because of his convictions that he would make the desired change in Nigeria.
“I do not know how and why people come up with these assertions and speculations. Kwankwaso cannot and will not step down for anyone,” he said.
“Kwankwaso is not in the race to negotiate. He has the capacity, track record for competence and political will to lead Nigeria to greater heights.
“Our candidate has no reason to step down. His path to victory and chances are very high. Competitive, yes, but his chances are very high considering his acceptance nationwide as a man of integrity.”
He said the party is ready for campaigns and would transverse the entire country to convince Nigerians for support.
Johnson said it was time for Nigerians to take what they read on social media with a pinch of salt, adding that as the campaign season draws near, a lot of lies would be unleashed to confuse Nigerians.
“I advise we check all information and be sure it is the truth before believing them,” he said.
“There will be a lot of campaign of calumny against politicians that are more acceptable to the people, but we are ready to put such campaigners to shame.”
He said the NNPP, as a party, has a clear vision of its intentions for Nigerians and would not be dragged into unnecessary criticisms but would face the task of convincing Nigerians of the fresh ideas it would bring on board if the party wins the election.