The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has defended its decision to require candidates seeking elective offices on its platform to sign anti-defection affidavits, saying the move is aimed at preserving party loyalty and preventing the wave of defections that has weakened political parties in the country.
Speaking on the policy, the party’s National Secretary, Ikenna Enekweizu, said the measure is rooted in the party’s constitution and is designed to ensure that candidates who win elections under the NDC remain committed to the platform throughout their tenure.
According to him, the party introduced the requirement after observing how elected officials in several political parties often defect shortly after securing victory, leaving behind the platforms that sponsored their elections. He said the NDC does not want to become a vehicle used solely for winning elections before politicians move elsewhere.
Enekweizu maintained that members who voluntarily join the party are bound by its constitution and decisions, arguing that the anti-defection affidavit is a legitimate internal mechanism for strengthening party discipline and institutional stability.
The party, however, clarified that its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, were exempted from the policy, with the focus placed primarily on lawmakers and other elected officials who are more prone to switching parties after elections.
NDC leaders said the initiative is part of broader efforts to build a stronger and more enduring political institution ahead of the 2027 general elections.
