The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced plans to hold fresh congresses in constituencies affected by candidate defections, following the resignation of its Bauchi State governorship candidate, Ibrahim Kashim. The party's response came through a statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in Abuja, as it moved to contain the fallout from Kashim's exit.
NDC Cites Electoral Act in Response to Resignation
Speaking in the statement, the NDC's National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said the party would activate provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, to conduct fresh congresses in any constituency where a candidate exits. Director did not name Kashim directly in the statement, but a source familiar with the matter confirmed to PUNCH Online that the former government official was the central figure behind the development. The source also indicated that other NDC candidates in Bauchi State could follow him out of the party.
The NDC used the statement to warn its members against what it described as inducements from the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the ruling party of deliberately trying to weaken opposition forces before the 2027 general elections. Supporters were urged to remain committed and not be discouraged.
Kashim Maintains Reform Agenda After Exit
In announcing his exit, Kashim said the decision came after careful thought. He insisted that leaving the NDC would not reduce his commitment to political reform and socio-economic development in Bauchi State, and assured his supporters that his political movement would continue. He has not yet disclosed which party he plans to join.
Kashim served as Secretary to the Bauchi State Government under Governor Bala Mohammed, who appointed him to the role in June 2021. He resigned from that position in December 2024, during a period of political tension between Mohammed and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Context: Recent Defections and NDC Momentum
Legit.ng earlier reported that a fresh wave of defections to the NDC hit on Saturday, October 11, 2026, as a former APC leader from Kumbotso LGA joined the party. Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the NDC's Vice Presidential Candidate, hosted the defecting official at his Kano residence. A media aide to Kwankwaso shared a video of the event on X, signalling growing momentum for the NDC ahead of 2027.
The NDC's decision to hold fresh congresses is a direct response to the potential loss of candidates, as the party seeks to maintain its structure and contest readiness for the 2027 general elections. The party has not yet announced a timeline for the congresses or named any replacements.
