NDC Waves Off Anti-Defection Requirement for Obi, Kwankwaso
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has clarified that its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, will not be bound by the party’s recently introduced anti-defection oath.
The clarification comes amid public debate over the policy, which requires candidates seeking elective positions on the party’s platform to pledge loyalty and commit against switching political allegiance after elections.
Speaking during a television programme on Wednesday, NDC National Secretary, Ikenna Enekweizu, said the party leadership had decided not to extend the requirement to its presidential ticket.
According to him, the exemption was an internal administrative decision taken by the party, even though the provision generally applies to candidates contesting under its banner.
Enekweizu explained that the policy was introduced as part of efforts to address the growing trend of elected officials abandoning the parties that sponsored them into office.
“First and foremost, a political party is like any other association, and every member who subscribes to the membership of the party is bound by the provisions of the constitution of the party and decisions taken by the party’s properly constituted authorities… Within NDC, the decision to make people sign that affidavit is provided for in our constitution,” he said.
He noted that the party was particularly concerned about legislators who defect after winning elections, describing the practice as a major challenge to party stability and democratic development.
“The constitution says everybody running under the platform of the party has to sign, but the party has taken the administrative decision that those required to sign in this instance do not include the presidential candidate and his vice,” he stated.
The NDC official also rejected claims that the loyalty oath conflicts with constitutional provisions, maintaining that political parties have the right to establish rules that guide the conduct of their members.
He said the anti-defection measure is intended to strengthen commitment among party members and preserve the integrity of the organisation.
The NDC had recently unveiled the policy as part of broader reforms aimed at consolidating its structure ahead of future elections.
While the decision to exempt Obi and Kwankwaso has generated discussion among political observers, party officials insist the policy remains a key tool for promoting discipline and loyalty within its ranks.
