Veteran journalist and former presidential aide Reuben Abati has issued a strong warning that the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) must avoid becoming an “IDP camp” for displaced politicians, despite its rapid rise in membership and political influence. The party’s membership has surged from approximately 9.4 million to over 10 million in a short span, following the high-profile defections of former presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso. Abati made these remarks during the Morning Show on Arise Television on Tuesday, highlighting both the potential and the perils of the NDC’s sudden growth.
The entry of Obi and Kwankwaso has significantly elevated the NDC’s profile, transforming it into a formidable opposition force ahead of the 2027 general elections. Abati noted that the party has become the “beautiful bride” of Nigerian politics, attracting attention and support from across the political spectrum. However, he cautioned that this momentum must not come at the cost of ideological clarity or structural integrity. Without a defined vision and a concrete platform, the NDC risks becoming a mere refuge for politicians seeking new political homes, rather than a genuine alternative for the Nigerian people.
Abati emphasized that while the NDC’s website lists principles such as service to the people, rule of law, agriculture, and transportation, these are generic slogans that lack substance. He stressed the need for the party to engage meaningfully with Nigerians and develop a “basic contract” with the electorate. This, he said, is essential for building trust and ensuring that the party’s growth translates into real political impact. He also pointed out that the NDC’s emergence is a wake-up call for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which has largely dismissed the party as insignificant.
According to Abati, political opposition in Nigeria cannot be suppressed indefinitely. He noted that when parties like the ADC or PDP are marginalized, Nigerians will naturally find new avenues for political expression. The NDC’s rise, therefore, reflects a broader demand for credible, competitive opposition in the country. He expressed confidence that the 2027 electoral process will be more competitive, giving voters the chance to make informed choices rather than being presented with a “fait accompli.” Abati concluded by affirming that both Obi and Kwankwaso have brought a new level of credibility, momentum, and peace to the NDC, setting the stage for more dynamic political developments in the coming years.
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