Democratic Congress of Nigeria Implements Strict Anti-Defection Policy
The Democratic Congress of Nigeria (NDC) has unveiled a robust anti-defection policy, mandating that all prospective candidates for elected positions must sign indemnity forms and affidavits. These legal documents stipulate that individuals who defect from the party after winning an election will be required to vacate their seats.
Impact on Key Party Figures Ahead of 2027 Elections
This policy was announced on Tuesday at the NDC’s national secretariat in Abuja, and it is poised to affect prominent party members, including presidential candidate Peter Obi and vice-presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who have recently joined the NDC in preparation for the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Enhancing Electoral Integrity and Party Discipline
During the signing ceremony attended by various candidates and aspirants, NDC National Chairman Moses Cleopas emphasized that the new directive is intended to safeguard the party’s electoral mandate and strengthen internal discipline. He pointed out the recurring trend of elected officials abandoning their party allegiance after securing positions, undermining party integrity.
Addressing the Issue of Political Defections
Cleopas highlighted that the frequent defections observed in the political landscape necessitate this initiative. “Historically, we have seen officials who win elections on our party’s platform only to later ditch their commitments,” he remarked. He noted that these defections often arise from self-serving motivations rather than genuine political alignment.
Learning from Labor Party’s Experience
Using the Labor Party as a case in point, Cleopas argued that many who were elected under its banner have since left the party, effectively diluting its strength. “Consider what the Labor Party could have achieved if all its elected officials had remained loyal,” he said, illustrating the challenges posed by such defections.
Policy Terms for Candidates
The NDC chairman made clear that while membership in the party is voluntary, those wishing to run for office must adhere to party policies. Candidates are required to sign affidavits and indemnity forms prior to receiving a party ticket, ensuring that they understand the implications of representing the NDC.
Legal Defenders Assert the Party’s Rights
NDC’s national legal adviser, Reuben Egwaba, defended the policy, equating political parties to autonomous associations governed by their internal regulations. He explained that according to Article 222 of the 1999 Constitution, party candidates are agents of their political party. Consequently, once elected, the office belongs to the party until the term concludes.
Response from Notable Absentees
Notably, several key figures, including Obi and Kwankwaso, were absent from the event, raising questions about the policy’s reception among influential party leaders. Ultimately, this initiative is viewed as a strategic move by the NDC to combat the wave of defections that have plagued opposition parties in recent years, particularly as both Obi and Kwankwaso have shifted allegiance among various political factions throughout their careers.
