The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced strict screening measures to prevent aspirants from exploiting the popularity of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso to gain political traction, as the party prepares for upcoming elections. Osa Director, National Publicity Secretary of the NDC, made the disclosure during an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Sunrise Daily’ on Thursday. He emphasized that the party is determined to avoid repeating the mistakes of 2023, when several candidates joined opposition parties like the Labour Party and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) only to later defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Director noted that the NDC has become more vigilant in evaluating candidates, especially those from the diaspora who have no prior political experience. He pointed out that many of these individuals rushed to acquire party forms under the NDC platform, likely motivated by the Obi-Kwankwaso political wave. “We are conscious of all that,” he said, adding that aspirants are now being thoroughly questioned about their vision, credentials, and commitment to the party’s ideals.
He stressed that candidates must demonstrate genuine grassroots presence and political dedication. “If you are not on the ground, who is going to vote for you?” Director asked, highlighting the party’s focus on authenticity and local engagement. The NDC is ensuring that only those with verifiable political pedigree and alignment with the party’s values will be allowed to contest under its banner.
Recall that in the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi was the Labour Party’s flagbearer, while Rabiu Kwankwaso represented the NNPP. In the lead-up to that election, numerous aspirants, some with little public profile, joined these parties and even won nominations. However, many of them later abandoned their original parties to join the APC, raising concerns about political opportunism and lack of party loyalty.
The NDC spokesman said his party has taken note of these developments and is committed to preventing similar occurrences. “It is not going to be business as usual,” he declared. The party is now conducting rigorous checks on all aspirants to ensure they are not merely riding on the coattails of popular figures but are genuinely committed to the NDC’s mission and principles.
By implementing these measures, the NDC aims to build a stronger, more credible opposition platform. The party’s focus on transparency and integrity in candidate selection reflects its broader goal of offering a genuine alternative to Nigeria’s current political landscape. As the next electoral cycle approaches, the NDC’s approach may set a new standard for accountability in Nigerian politics.
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