The NNPP consensus adoption strategy has been formally adopted by the New Nigeria Peoples Party as it outlined its roadmap for the 2027 general elections. Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Boniface Aniebonam, announced that the party would rely on consensus in selecting candidates while granting pardon to previously expelled members. The announcement was made in Lagos on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ engagement. He said the decision reflects efforts to stabilise the party after internal disputes.
The NNPP has faced internal leadership disputes since the 2023 election cycle. These disputes led to factional alignments, court cases, and the removal of some party officials. Several members were also expelled over allegations of anti-party activities during the period.
Party leaders said the internal crisis affected cohesion and weakened operational structures across some states. The need to rebuild unity and restore organisational discipline has since become a priority for the party leadership.
The introduction of NNPP consensus adoption follows resolutions reached at the party’s convention in Lagos. Officials said the model is intended to reduce friction associated with delegate-based primaries and strengthen internal agreement among stakeholders.
Boniface Aniebonam said the party would move away from expensive and divisive primary elections. He stated that consensus would allow stakeholders to agree on candidates based on credibility and acceptability. He said: “We have adopted consensus candidacy because the process of primaries has denied credible candidates the opportunity to represent the party.”
Aniebonam explained that the NNPP consensus adoption framework would be implemented through consultations across party structures. He added that aspirants would be screened and selected through agreements reached by stakeholders at different levels.
He also announced a general pardon for members previously expelled. He said: “I hereby declare a general pardon for all members who were expelled from the party.”
According to him, many of the expulsions occurred during the tenure of a now-defunct National Working Committee. He said affected members are expected to report to the current leadership led by Dr Agbo Major to regularise their status.
The party further stated that elected officials under its platform would be granted automatic tickets for the 2027 elections. Officials said this decision aligns with earlier internal agreements and is aimed at rewarding loyalty and performance.
The adoption of NNPP consensus adoption marks a significant shift in the party’s internal governance approach. By reducing reliance on competitive primaries, the party aims to limit internal disputes and financial barriers often associated with delegate systems.
The pardon of expelled members is expected to widen participation and rebuild trust within the party. It may also strengthen the NNPP’s presence in states where internal conflicts had weakened its structure. The approach reflects a broader pattern in Nigeria’s political system, where parties explore consensus arrangements to manage competing ambitions and maintain cohesion ahead of elections.
