Tag: NDC

  • NDC Unveils Timetable, Nomination Fees For 2027 Primaries Ahead Of General Elections

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress has officially released its timetable for the sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms ahead of the 2027 general elections, outlining screening dates, primary election schedules and nomination fees for aspirants across the country.

    The party disclosed the details in a press release issued on May 12, 2026, as part of early preparations for the next election cycle.

    Sale Of Forms Begins May 13

    According to the timetable released by the party, the sale of Expression of Interest Forms will commence on Wednesday, May 13, and end on Monday, May 18, 2026.

    The party also scheduled screening and interviews for aspirants between Tuesday, May 19, and Saturday, May 21, while the sale of Nomination Forms will take place from Thursday, May 21, to Saturday, May 23.

    Completed nomination forms are expected to be submitted on or before Monday, May 26, while appeals arising from the screening exercise will be handled between May 25 and May 26.

    Presidential Primary Fixed For May 29

    The NDC further announced that primary elections for different elective positions would hold between Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, in Abuja.

    The party fixed its presidential primary election for Friday, May 29, 2026, also in Abuja.

    According to the party, the screening process will come before the purchase of full nomination forms to reduce financial losses for aspirants who may later be disqualified.

    Breakdown Of Nomination Fees

    The party released different fees for aspirants seeking elective positions at both state and national levels.

    For State House of Assembly aspirants, the Expression of Interest Form costs ₦1 million, while the Nomination Form costs ₦1.5 million.

    House of Representatives aspirants are expected to pay ₦2 million for the Expression of Interest Form and ₦4 million for the Nomination Form.

    Senate aspirants will pay ₦3 million and ₦5 million respectively, while governorship aspirants are expected to pay ₦10 million and ₦20 million.

    For the presidency, the Expression of Interest Form was pegged at ₦20 million, while the Nomination Form costs ₦40 million.

    Women, PWDs Get Discounts

    One of the major highlights of the announcement is the party’s discount structure for women and persons with disabilities.

    The NDC disclosed that female aspirants would enjoy a 50 per cent discount across all categories, while persons with disabilities would receive a 25 per cent reduction.

    The party said the move reflects its commitment to inclusivity and broader political participation.

    Party Promises Transparency

    According to the statement signed by National Chairman Sen. Moses Cleopas Zuwohge and Secretary Barr. Ikenna Morgan Enekwu, aspirants will be required to submit credentials and supporting documents during the screening process.

    The party also stated that its primaries would follow internal democratic procedures, including an “open secret ballot” system guided by party rules and code of conduct.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Announcement

    The announcement has generated reactions on social media, with many users praising the relatively lower fees compared to what major political parties charged in previous election cycles.

    Some supporters described the structure as progressive, especially the discounts for women and persons with disabilities.

    However, concerns were also raised over issues including logo discrepancies allegedly linked to INEC records, fears of infiltration by defectors from other political parties, and demands for transparent membership verification.

    Others questioned whether the party would maintain internal democracy and avoid alleged backdoor political arrangements ahead of 2027.

  • 2027: Peter Obi’s Chances Rise as NDC Zones Presidential Ticket to South

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria, a decision widely viewed as a major boost for former Anambra State governor Peter Obi.

    The announcement was made on Saturday during the party’s national convention held in Abuja and was later confirmed through a statement shared on the party’s official X handle.

    Convention Draws Top Political Figures

    Several high-profile politicians attended the convention, including Peter Obi and former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

    Discussions at the gathering reportedly centred on zoning arrangements, constitutional amendments, and the election of national executives ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The zoning decision is expected to shape the party’s presidential race and strengthen Obi’s position within the NDC following his recent defection.

    Wave of Defections Strengthens NDC

    The NDC has recently recorded a series of defections from opposition parties, especially the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    On Tuesday, 17 members of the House of Representatives dumped the ADC for the NDC during plenary, further increasing the party’s political momentum ahead of 2027.

    The defections followed the official entry of Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso into the party after leaving the ADC.

    Obi, Kwankwaso Welcomed Into Party

    The two politicians reportedly received their membership cards after a closed-door meeting with party leaders.

    Former Bayelsa State governor and NDC national leader, Seriake Dickson, officially welcomed them into the party.

    Reports indicated that Obi left the ADC following growing internal crises and what he described as increasing hostility within the party structure.

    The latest zoning arrangement is now expected to intensify political calculations ahead of the 2027 presidential election as opposition parties continue realignments across the country.

  • NDC Fixes May 9 for First National Convention in Abuja Amid 2027 Talks

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced plans to hold its first national convention in Abuja on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

    The party disclosed this in a statement released on Friday by its National Chairman, Moses Cleopas, through the party’s official 𝕏 page.

    Delegates Invited to Abuja Gathering

    According to the statement, delegates from across the country have been invited to attend the convention, which is expected to bring together party members and major stakeholders.

    The event will hold at the Los Angeles Event Centre along Ahmadu Bello Way in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and is scheduled to begin by 10 a.m.

    “The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) welcomes all delegates to its inaugural national convention holding on Saturday, 9th May 2026, at Los Angeles Event Centre, Ahmadu Bello Way, FCT Abuja, by 10 a.m.,” the statement read.

    The party also stated that preparations for the convention had been completed, urging delegates to arrive early for the commencement of activities.

    Party Speaks on Jonathan Speculations

    Meanwhile, the NDC has denied reports linking the party to an alleged agreement with former President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    The party insisted that consultations regarding its presidential ticket were still ongoing and that no final decision had been reached.

    Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, the Deputy National Spokesman of the party, Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, said the NDC had neither zoned its presidential ticket nor entered into any arrangement with Jonathan.

    “The NDC is a party that believes in merging ideas and consultations across boards,” he said.

    “I can categorically tell you that we have not zoned the presidential ticket. Consultations are still ongoing since politics is a dynamic game.”

    2027 Political Activities Gather Momentum

    The latest development comes as political consultations and alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to intensify across major parties in Nigeria.

    The NDC’s inaugural convention is expected to shape key discussions around the party’s structure, strategy, and possible presidential direction ahead of the next election cycle.

     

  • 2027: NDC Breaks Silence on Alleged Jonathan Presidential Pact

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed reports linking the party to an alleged agreement with former President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    The party said consultations regarding its presidential ticket were still ongoing and no final decision had been reached.

    NDC denies zoning presidential ticket

    Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, the party’s Deputy National Spokesman, Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, stated that the NDC had neither zoned its presidential ticket nor entered into any pact with Jonathan.

    “The NDC is a party that believes in merging ideas and consultations across boards,” he said.

    “I can categorically tell you that we have not zoned the presidential ticket. Consultations are still ongoing since politics is a dynamic game.”

    His remarks come amid growing speculation that the former president could emerge as a consensus candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.

    ‘High-profile politicians joining party’

    Abdulsalam disclosed that the NDC was already attracting interest from several influential political figures across different parties, including members of the ruling APC.

    According to him, former governors, ex-ministers and lawmakers are making moves towards the party ahead of the next election cycle.

    “As I speak to you, we are still expecting high-profile personalities, including former governors, ex-ministers, serving and former lawmakers, even from the ruling party,” he said.

    “The NDC is the beautiful bride that everybody wants to have right now.”

    Party reacts to Jonathan rumours

    Reacting directly to reports surrounding Jonathan, Abdulsalam described the claims as speculation without any formal backing from the party leadership.

    “This is another rumour making the rounds that former President Jonathan wants to pitch his tent in our party,” he stated.

    “There is no concrete move like that in the hierarchy of our party, and such a decision has not been taken.”

    Despite the denial, the spokesman noted that Jonathan remains constitutionally qualified to contest if he decides to return to active politics.

    “But I can tell you that everything is still possible in the case of former President Jonathan,” he added.

    “He is a Nigerian who is eminently qualified to fly the flag of the party on any platform of his choice. But as of today, we have no pact with him.”

  • Wike Slams Obi Over Defection, Questions His Leadership Record

    Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticised former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi over his recent defection to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Wike made the remarks on Wednesday during his monthly media briefing in Abuja.

    Wike questions Obi’s political track record

    The minister accused Obi of failing to stabilise political parties he has been associated with, describing his movements as a pattern.

    He said Obi’s political journey from APGA to PDP, Labour Party and now NDC reflects an inability to manage internal crises.

    “Obi was in APGA. He couldn’t build the APGA… He came to the PDP, he ran away. He went to Labour, there was crisis, he couldn’t fix it. He left again,” Wike said.

    “Looking for where food is ready”

    Wike argued that Obi’s decisions appear driven by personal interest rather than commitment to party development.

    “All he is looking for is where food is ready. ‘Mama put’. Who will stabilise if you cannot stabilise?” he added.

    Criticism extends to ADC exit

    He also referenced Obi’s brief association with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), noting that his exit from the party further reinforces concerns about consistency.

    According to Wike, leadership requires the ability to confront and resolve challenges, not withdraw from them.

    Supreme Court remarks questioned

    The FCT minister also pointed to Obi’s reaction to the Supreme Court ruling on the ADC leadership dispute, alleging contradictions.

    He said while Obi initially praised the judgement, some of his supporters later questioned it, raising concerns about coherence in his political stance.

  • Aisha Yesufu Dumps ADC, Declares FCT Senate Bid After Joining NDC

    Prominent activist Aisha Yesufu has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), where she has declared her intention to contest the Federal Capital Territory senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.

    She made the announcement on Wednesday via a statement shared on her X handle.

    Defection tied to Obi’s political move

    Yesufu linked her decision to her continued support for former presidential candidate Peter Obi, who recently moved to the NDC.

    She said her latest political step reflects a deeper conviction about Nigeria’s future and alignment with Obi’s leadership.

    “The next couple of days will define the future of this nation… I resigned from the ADC to join the NDC as I follow the leadership of HE Peter Obi,” she stated.

    “I’m running for FCT Senate”

    The activist confirmed that she would be contesting for the FCT senatorial seat under the platform of the NDC.

    “This time I am joining the NDC not just as a member but as one running for the FCT Senatorial seat,” she added.

    Explains exit from ADC

    Yesufu described her resignation as a “clean transition”, noting that her initial move to the ADC was also influenced by her support for Obi.

    She said her defection is a continuation of that commitment.

    “When I give my word, I keep it… To continue to honour the promise I am joining the NDC,” she said.

    Appreciates party members

    She also expressed gratitude to members of the ADC, stating that she had completed her responsibilities within the party.

    According to her, she served in multiple roles including sub-committee chair, deputy committee chair, and secretary.

  • Obi-Kwankwaso Camp Claims 10 Million Nigerians Joined NDC Within 24 Hours

    The South-West coordinator of the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement, Dr Adefolaseye Adebayo, has claimed that about 10 million Nigerians registered with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) within 24 hours of Peter Obi joining the party.

    She made the statement during an interview while reacting to concerns over Obi’s political chances ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Claim follows Obi’s defection

    The development comes after Obi and former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso left the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the NDC.

    Their move has triggered widespread reactions, with debates over its impact on the opposition’s strength.

    Adebayo dismisses concerns

    Adebayo rejected claims that Obi’s chances had weakened following his defection.

    She insisted that his political strength goes beyond party platforms, pointing to his national appeal.

    “Mr Peter Obi has a lot of followership across Nigeria. You can’t say his chances have drastically reduced,” she said.

    ‘10 million registered in 24 hours’

    Highlighting what she described as growing momentum, Adebayo claimed millions joined the NDC shortly after Obi’s move.

    “Twenty-four hours after Peter Obi left ADC, 10 million Nigerians registered with NDC and that says a lot,” she added.

    The claim has not been independently verified.

    Supporters cite growing momentum

    Supporters of Obi and Kwankwaso have argued that their alliance could form a strong opposition bloc ahead of 2027.

    They say the increasing interest in the NDC reflects continued public support for their political agenda.

    Ongoing political realignments

    The latest development adds to ongoing shifts within Nigeria’s political space as parties and key figures reposition ahead of the next general elections.

    Observers say the coming months will be critical in determining how these alignments shape the 2027 race.

  • Obi, Kwankwaso Join NDC After Dumping ADC Ahead of 2027 Race

    Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and his New Nigeria Peoples Party counterpart, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, have formally joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    The development comes shortly after Obi announced his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Sunday, citing internal challenges within the party.

    NDC welcomes new entrants

    Both politicians were received at the party’s headquarters in Abuja by NDC National Leader, Henry Seriake Dickson, and National Chairman, Moses Cleopas.

    Party leaders described their defection as a major boost, signalling growing confidence in the NDC across the country.

    Move linked to 2027 ambitions

    The decision by the two former governors is seen as part of ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    Their entry into the NDC is expected to shape discussions within opposition circles as parties begin early positioning.

    Obi cites internal crisis in ADC

    Earlier, Obi explained that his decision to leave the ADC was influenced by persistent internal disputes and legal battles within the party.

    He described the political environment as increasingly hostile, noting that even within alliances, individuals often face unexpected opposition.

    ‘Decision not personal’ — Obi

    The former Anambra governor said his exit was not due to personal issues with party leaders, including David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

    He reiterated his belief in leadership as service, adding that he has never used power to oppress others.

    Obi also dismissed claims that his political moves are driven by personal ambition.

  • Presidency Blasts Peter Obi Over ADC Exit, Labels Him ‘Political Nomad’

    The Presidency has criticised former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi over his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Onanuga attacks Obi’s political move

    Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described Obi’s defection as proof of political inconsistency.

    Reacting via his X handle on Sunday, Onanuga said the move confirmed earlier claims about Obi’s political approach.

    “We told you so. The political nomad is on the move again,” he said.

    Obi cites internal crisis for exit

    Obi had earlier announced his departure from the ADC, pointing to internal disputes, legal battles, and what he described as a hostile political environment.

    He maintained that his decision was not due to personal disagreements with party leaders, including David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

    The former Anambra governor said recurring crises within the party influenced his exit, adding that leadership should be about service, not personal ambition.

    Presidency questions motive behind defection

    Onanuga dismissed Obi’s explanation, describing it as self-serving and aimed at his supporters.

    He accused the former governor of avoiding competition within the ADC.

    “Peter Obi is a politician made of jelly, an opportunistic fellow. He can’t fight Atiku or Amaechi for the ticket of ADC,” he said.

    According to him, Obi chose what he described as an easier political path by moving to another platform.

    Doubts raised over 2027 chances

    The presidential aide added that Obi’s latest move does not guarantee success in the next election cycle.

    “He pursues the easy road, that will only lead him to doom, like in 2023,” Onanuga stated.

    He also accused Obi of blaming the government instead of reflecting on his own political decisions.

    Political alignments ahead of 2027

    Obi’s defection is expected to influence opposition dynamics as parties begin early positioning for the 2027 general elections.

    Onanuga concluded his remarks by welcoming the former governor into the race.

    “Welcome, Peter to the 2027 race,” he added.

  • NDC Moves for Obi, Kwankwaso Ticket as 2027 Race Gathers Pace

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has stepped up moves ahead of the 2027 elections, openly courting Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso with an offer to run on its platform.

    The party hinted at a two-week window for both politicians to decide on joining and securing its presidential ticket.

    Deadline Sparks Attention

    In a post on X, the NDC wrote: “All we need right now. Just all we need. 2 weeks to deadline,” alongside a photo of Obi and Kwankwaso shaking hands with the caption, “Nigeria will be OK.”

    The move signals growing urgency among emerging political blocs seeking to reposition before the next general election cycle.

    ‘OK Movement’ Gains Ground

    The development follows the launch of the “OK Movement” by supporters of Obi and Kwankwaso, aimed at mobilising backing for a possible joint ticket.

    Justin Ijeh, the group’s national publicity secretary, has since announced appointments into its national executive council, as well as zonal and state structures.

    Wider Opposition Realignments

    The push comes amid broader political realignments across opposition parties ahead of 2027.

    At the same time, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing an internal leadership crisis, with uncertainty over its readiness for the elections.

    On April 22, the Supreme Court reserved judgment in an appeal filed by a faction led by David Mark, challenging a suit involving party leadership.

    Race for 2027 Intensifies

    The NDC’s latest move adds to growing manoeuvres among political actors positioning for the 2027 presidential race, as alliances and negotiations continue to shape the opposition landscape.