NDC Spares Peter Obi, Kwankwaso from New Anti-Defection Pledge

The Nigeria Democratic Congress has shed light on its decision to exempt its presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, from signing a recently introduced anti-defection oath. This clarification was provided by the party's National Spokesman, Ikenna Enekweizu, during an interview on Channels Television's Politics Today. Enekweizu defended the move, explaining that as a voluntary association, political parties have the right to establish internal regulations and constitutional frameworks that bind their members. He also addressed criticisms that the oath contradicts Nigeria's constitution, stating that the NDC's internal constitution fully supports the requirement for members to sign a loyalty affidavit. However, the party has chosen to exercise administrative discretion, excusing Obi and Kwankwaso from this requirement. According to Enekweizu, the party's constitution stipulates that all candidates running under the NDC platform must sign the oath, but the leadership has decided that this rule does not apply to the presidential candidate and his vice. The spokesman emphasized that the primary focus of the anti-defection policy is not on executive positions such as governors or the president, but rather on legislative candidates who win seats under the party's umbrella only to defect to rival parties shortly after taking office. Enekweizu stated that the NDC is committed to building a stable and enduring political institution, and the party will take measures to prevent politicians from using the party as a stepping stone to public office. The NDC recently introduced the anti-defection policy, which requires candidates to sign indemnity and affidavit forms committing to vacate their seats if they switch parties, in an effort to curb the frequent defection of elected officials, which party leaders argue undermines political organizations and erodes voter confidence.