NDC Introduces Anti-Defection Policy, Requires Candidates to Sign Commitment Forms

The National Democratic Coalition (NDC) has introduced a strict anti-defection policy requiring all its candidates seeking elective offices to sign indemnity and affidavit forms committing to vacate their seats if they defect from the party after winning elections.

The development means that any candidate elected on the NDC platform in the 2027 general elections who subsequently leaves the party will automatically forfeit the seat won under its banner.

According to the party, the policy is aimed at strengthening internal discipline, promoting loyalty among elected officials and preventing the wave of defections that has characterized Nigeria’s political landscape in recent years.

The measure is expected to apply to all categories of candidates contesting under the party’s platform, including those seeking legislative, governorship and presidential positions.

By implication, the policy would also affect the party’s reported presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, should they emerge victorious in the 2027 elections and later choose to leave the party.

Party officials said the indemnity and affidavit documents would serve as binding commitments by candidates to remain with the NDC throughout their tenure in office or relinquish their mandates if they decide to defect.

The move has already generated debate among political observers, with supporters describing it as a step toward strengthening party ideology and accountability, while critics question the legal implications and enforceability of such agreements under Nigeria’s constitutional framework.