NDC Imposes Anti-Defection Policy Ahead of 2027 Elections
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has introduced a strict anti-defection rule requiring all candidates who want the party’s ticket to sign indemnity and affidavit forms before being cleared to contest.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, National Chairman Moses Cleopas said the move protects the party’s electoral mandate and strengthens internal discipline.
Cleopas noted that politicians often abandon their parties after winning elections, treating the mandate as personal property, which the NDC wishes to stop.
He cited the Labour Party’s post‑2023 experience as a warning, noting many elected members left the party despite its gains.
National Legal Adviser Reuben Egwuaba explained that a party ticket comes with the duty to obey the party’s rules, and the mandate belongs to the party, not the individual.
The policy applies to all aspirants across elective offices as the NDC prepares for the 2027 general elections, affecting figures such as Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso and recent entrants like Aishatu Binani.
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