The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) spokesman, Ladipo Johnson, has criticized former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai for prematurely discussing the opposition coalition, stating that arrangements should have been finalized before making public announcements.

Speaking on Arise TV's Morning Show on Tuesday, Johnson suggested that NNPP's National Leader, Rabiu Kwankwaso, may be engaged in discussions with various political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the proposed coalition.

"If I said that we are not talking to anyone that will be a lie. The whole problem we have now is because of El-Rufai who moved too quickly and started talking too quickly," Johnson stated.

He emphasized the strategic importance of timing in political maneuvers against a sitting government. "When you have a sitting government and you think you want to take them on, there are certain things you have to leave to the last possible moment. When you come out to show your cards, it makes it easier for them to pick you out and stop you," he explained.

Johnson revealed that various political groups and movements are currently in dialogue with each other. "I have people who talk to me in my own little way and I'm sure Kwankwaso will be considering all sorts," he said, adding that Kwankwaso's decisions would be influenced by his assessment of the country's situation.

The NNPP spokesman defended Kwankwaso's political integrity, stating that he is "not about stomach infrastructure" but rather guided by principles. He referenced Kwankwaso's previous political movements, including leaving the then-ruling PDP to form the APC, and later departing from the APC after it gained power.

In a pointed comment about internal APC dynamics, Johnson suggested that President Bola Tinubu would prefer Kwankwaso over the current APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje. "If you were in Tinubu's shoes, would you take Kwankwaso to Ganduje? What does Ganduje bring to the table?" he questioned.

These statements come amid ongoing speculation about potential realignments in Nigeria's political landscape ahead of future electoral contests, with opposition parties considering strategic alliances to challenge the ruling APC.