NDC Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi & his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has shed more light on its recently introduced anti-defection policy, clarifying that its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, will not be required to sign the party’s loyalty oath.
The clarification came from the party’s National Secretary, Ikenna Enekweizu, during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today. His comments followed growing public discussions about the legality and implications of the oath, which was introduced to curb the growing trend of political defections in Nigeria.
According to Enekweizu, the policy is designed to strengthen party discipline and protect the integrity of the NDC. He explained that political parties, like other organizations, are governed by constitutions and internal regulations that members voluntarily agree to follow.
“First and foremost, a political party is like any other association, and every member who subscribes to the membership of the party is bound by the provisions of the constitution of the party and decisions taken by the party’s properly constituted authorities,” he stated.
Defending the controversial measure, Enekweizu dismissed claims that the oath violates constitutional rights. He argued that members who choose to join a political party are expected to abide by its rules and decisions.
However, despite the constitutional provision requiring candidates to sign the oath, the party leadership has chosen to exempt its presidential ticket from the requirement.
“The constitution says everybody running under the platform of the party has to sign, but the party has taken the administrative decision that those required to sign in this instance do not include the presidential candidate and his vice,” he explained.
The NDC secretary further clarified that the party’s primary concern is not with governors or presidents but with lawmakers who often leave the platform that sponsored their elections shortly after securing office.
“Our main focus is not the governor; it’s not the president, it’s the national and state assembly members elected on the platform of our party,” Enekweizu said.
Political defections have long been a source of controversy in Nigeria’s democratic landscape, with many parties losing elected members to rival platforms after elections. The NDC believes its anti-defection oath will help address this challenge and strengthen party loyalty.
According to the party leadership, the objective is to build a sustainable political institution rather than serve as a temporary platform for ambitious politicians.
As preparations for future elections continue, the NDC’s decision signals its determination to enforce party discipline while also balancing practical political considerations at the highest level of leadership.
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