“Mass Defections Rock Opposition as Obi, Kwankwaso Join NDC Before INEC Deadline”

Nigeria’s political landscape is witnessing major realignments as former presidential candidate Peter Obi and ex-Kano State governor Senator Musa Kwankwaso have left the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

The defections come amid a rush by politicians to meet INEC’s May 10 deadline for submission of party membership registers, with more movements expected in the coming days.

The development follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that cast uncertainty over the ADC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), prompting opposition figures to seek alternative platforms to remain eligible for the 2027 elections.

Among recent moves, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed defected from the PDP to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), while Obi and Kwankwaso led several high-profile politicians into the NDC.

The duo, alongside other defectors, held a strategic meeting with former Bayelsa State governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, before being formally admitted into the party.

Speaking after the meeting, Obi said Nigeria’s political climate, characterised by internal disputes and court cases, had stalled progress and forced leaders to explore new platforms.

“We are gathered here because we believe in building a united, secure and prosperous Nigeria that works for everyone. It is unacceptable that over 50 per cent of our population is not productively engaged. That must change,’’ he said.

Kwankwaso emphasised the importance of unity and inclusiveness, noting shared priorities in education and empowerment.

“We share common ground in promoting education and empowering young people and women. Our goal is to build a peaceful and united Nigeria,’’ he stated.

NDC leader Seriake Dickson described the party as a fast-growing platform committed to integrity and national renewal.

Earlier, Obi had explained his departure from the ADC, blaming political interference and describing the environment as toxic.

“The same Nigerian state and its agents that created unnecessary crises and hostility within the Labour Party that forced me to leave now appear to be finding their way into the ADC,” he said.

“I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a society that can console a mother whose child has been kidnapped or killed… a country where citizens do not go to bed hungry,’’ Obi added.

However, the Presidency dismissed Obi’s move, labelling him a “political nomad,” with presidential aide Bayo Onanuga criticising his actions.

Also weighing in, lawmaker Victor Ogene claimed opposition party crises were aimed at Obi.

“I do not think what is happening in the ADC is targeted at the party. It is targeted at only one person, Mr. Peter Obi,” he said.

With the deadline approaching, analysts expect more defections, signalling a major shake-up in Nigeria’s political structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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