In a significant political development, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso have formally joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Abuja. The move, which took place on Sunday at the party's national secretariat, follows their departure from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and has ignited fresh debate within opposition circles.
Legal Controversy Surrounds NDC Registration
The defection has been overshadowed by legal challenges to the NDC's registration. Dr. Umar Ardo, a chieftain of the ADC, claimed in a media interview that the party's registration process is being contested in court. He stated, "We are in court over NDC irregularities in registration by INEC," adding that the case could affect the legitimacy of the party's formation. Ardo alleged that the registration did not meet required conditions and that legal processes were bypassed through a court order.
Another stakeholder, Hamma Hayatu, echoed these concerns, insisting that the matter rests with the courts. "We are in court over NDC irregularities in registration by INEC. The court will cancel the NDC registration," he said.
Political Reactions and Instability Concerns
The development has drawn reactions from political figures. Senator Shehu Sani noted on social media that political transitions often come with tension and fallout, and that such moves should be expected to attract resistance from former allies. "The Ex will irrationally hunt you," he wrote, suggesting that political breakups often lead to prolonged disputes.
Commentators have warned that the sudden shift could deepen instability within opposition ranks, as the legal uncertainty over the NDC's registration adds to the confusion.
Obi Confirms Exit, Kwankwaso Consults
Peter Obi confirmed his exit from the ADC, while Kwankwaso indicated ongoing "wide-ranging consultations" with the NDC before finalizing his political direction. As the situation unfolds, the legality of the NDC's registration and the political futures of its new high-profile entrants remain uncertain, with observers awaiting judicial and official responses.
Background: Cubana Chiefpriest's Remarks
Earlier, Nigerian socialite Cubana Chiefpriest made subtle remarks about Peter Obi's party switch, stating that in politics, the major competition is not the opposition but fellow party members. His comments have triggered reactions amid the ongoing political realignment.
The authors of this report, Ezra Ukanwa, a Politics and Current Affairs Editor at Legit.ng, is a Reuters-certified journalist with over five years of experience. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication from Anchor University, Lagos, and was previously a senior correspondent at Vanguard Newspapers.
