NDC Introduces Anti-Defection Oath, Exempts Obi, Kwankwaso

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has introduced a new anti-defection oath policy aimed at preventing elected officials on its platform from leaving the party after winning elections, while exempting its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso.

The party’s National Secretary, Ikenna Enekweizu, explained the policy during a television interview on Wednesday, where he defended it against claims that it may contradict constitutional provisions.

Enekweizu said the oath of loyalty is provided for in the party’s constitution and is intended to address the recurring issue of post-election defections that have weakened political parties over time.

ALSO READ: Aisha Yesufu Urges Supporters to Focus on Obi’s 2027 Presidential Bid

“A political party is a voluntary association, and anyone who joins is bound by its constitution and the decisions of its duly recognised organs, including the requirement for an affidavit of loyalty as contained in our rules,” he said.

He rejected suggestions that the policy was unconstitutional, maintaining that membership of voluntary associations comes with binding internal rules and obligations.

ALSO READ: IBSWLG Chairmanship Aspirant Olu Bello Hails SUBEB Boss Nureni Adeniran on Birthday, Praises Impact on Education Sector

He however confirmed that although the constitution requires all candidates to sign the oath, the party has made an administrative adjustment excluding the presidential and vice-presidential candidates.

“The constitution provides that all candidates must sign, but an administrative decision has been taken that the presidential candidate and his running mate are exempted in this case,” he said.

Enekweizu noted that the policy is mainly targeted at legislators who are more frequently involved in post-election defections.

ALSO READ: SA Security Bibire Inspects Enforcement Of Executive Order 002 Across Ibadan, Commends Compliance

“Our primary concern is with National Assembly and state assembly members, not the presidential or governorship candidates,” he added.

The NDC said the measure is intended to strengthen internal discipline and ensure that the party is not used merely as an electoral platform for winning elections before defection.

ADVERTISE WITH US

Do you want to reach your targeted audience and expand your brand’s visibility?

Advertise with Polity Reporters to place your “message” before the right audience.

For advertising enquiries, reach us through:

Email: bandcommunications001@gmail.com

Facebook: Polity Reporters

WhatsApp: 07043810558

“Journalism is what we need to make democracy work.”

“News is what somebody somewhere wants to suppress; all the rest is advertising.”

“Journalism can never be silent: that is its greatest virtue and its greatest fault.”

“The duty of a journalist is to convey the truth as clearly and fully as possible.”

“Good journalism is about results. It is about affecting your community or your society in the most progressive way.”

“Journalism is printing what someone else does not want printed; everything else is public relations.”

“A free press is not a privilege but an organic necessity in a great society.”

“The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”

“Journalism without a moral position is impossible.”

“The function of journalism is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”

Polity Reporters

Polity Reporters brings you news from Nigeria and around the world. The team follows developments closely and reports in a way that helps readers understand what is happening locally and internationally. Every piece is clear, reliable, and useful for anyone who wants to stay informed.