Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and ex-Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso have formally joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), urging party members and stakeholders to avoid litigation and focus on national development ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The two prominent opposition figures were received into the party on Sunday in Abuja, amid ongoing political realignments shaping Nigeria’s opposition landscape. Their defection follows Obi’s resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which he joined in December.
Speaking at the event, Obi said their move to the NDC was motivated by the search for a stable political platform free from internal conflicts and legal battles. He emphasized the need for unity and a peaceful political environment to drive national progress.
Obi also accused the current administration of contributing to persistent crises within opposition parties, leading to prolonged court cases and instability. He appealed to party members and the judiciary to reduce political litigation, urging a shift in focus toward addressing pressing national challenges.
“We want to build a united, secure, and prosperous Nigeria. Let us avoid unnecessary disputes and concentrate on the issues affecting ordinary citizens,” he said.
Kwankwaso, in his remarks, noted that discussions with NDC leadership revealed strong alignment in ideology, particularly in areas such as education, youth empowerment, security, and national unity. He called on Nigerians, including those in the diaspora, to register with the party ahead of its upcoming membership deadline.
The former governor also rallied his political supporters, including members of the New Nigeria People’s Party and the Kwankwasiyya movement, to align with the NDC.
The duo received their membership cards following a closed-door meeting with party leaders, drawing cheers from supporters present at the event.
Welcoming them, former Bayelsa State governor and NDC National Leader Seriake Dickson described Obi and Kwankwaso as influential political figures whose entry would strengthen the party’s national appeal. He added that the NDC is built on principles of transparency, inclusion, and democratic values.
Also speaking, former Adamawa governorship candidate Aishatu Binani praised the duo’s grassroots influence, particularly among youth and women, describing their arrival as a boost to the party’s growing support base.
The development follows a series of opposition shifts and internal disputes across parties, as political actors continue efforts to build a stronger coalition capable of challenging the ruling party in 2027.
Obi, in a separate statement, cited internal crises, legal disputes, and what he described as a “toxic” political environment as reasons for his exit from the ADC. He maintained that his decision was not driven by personal grievances with party leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ADC National Chairman David Mark.
The latest defection highlights the evolving dynamics within Nigeria’s opposition, with shifting alliances and renewed efforts to consolidate political strength ahead of the next general elections.
