jasdooit

Prominent leaders from the African Democratic Congress are set to switch allegiance to the National Democratic Congress before the 2027 national elections, according to Saturday PUNCH.

Our reporters found out that among those involved in the ongoing realignment is the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

Individuals connected to the former governor of Anambra State mentioned that this action came about due to increasing frustration with the internal organization of the ADC and heightened uncertainty following a Supreme Court ruling.

The court’s decision, announced on Thursday, while regarded by some as a short-term reprieve, increased concerns among coalition leaders before the 2027 elections.

Although the top court lifted the previous injunction that removed David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from their roles as National Chairman and Secretary, respectively, the decision did not address the core leadership conflict, but rather sent the case back to the Federal High Court to proceed further.

As the main issues remain unresolved in the lower court, there are concerns that the ultimate decision might shake up the party’s leadership during a crucial phase of the election process.

Sources stated that the situation, along with the ongoing conflict with supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, led Obi and his allies to reevaluate their presence.

A person involved in the process stated, “I can verify that His Excellency Peter Obi has been seeking advice from several of us who are stakeholders. Given the current situation within the ADC, the party appears to be organized in a way that benefits a specific candidate. They are also unwilling to allocate the presidential nomination to the South.”

If the party structure benefits a candidate, that individual is likely to win, and it won’t represent a legitimate primary election. Moreover, considering the many legal disputes within the party and the ongoing turmoil, His Excellency has determined that the platform is not strong enough for him to run on.

Remember that Obi pledged to his followers and Nigerians that his name would appear on the ballot. We have met with the NDC, and they have assured an uncontested presidential nomination for him to contest in 2027.

Assuming everything remains the same, within a few days—between now and next week—he is anticipated to leave the ADC for the NDC. This will be a significant shift, and all his followers are also expected to follow him to the NDC. That is what I am aware of.

A member of the former governor’s team verified the strategy.

“Based on my research and comprehension, he intends to announce this to all Nigerians and take steps in the near future,” the source stated.

Upon being reached, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, refused to verify or deny the situation but emphasized that Obi will participate in the 2027 election.

He stated, “Well, I won’t either confirm or deny simultaneously until an official announcement is made.”

What I want to convey to Nigerians is that His Excellency, Peter Obi has consistently stated that he will be on the ballot to contest for the position of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I have faith in him, and I hope Nigerians will also have confidence in him. What I mentioned is straightforward: I said he will run on a platform. I did not specify which one.

The Deputy Publicity Secretary of the NDC, Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, mentioned that talks between Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso have been taking place with the party’s National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson.

He stated, “Well, the most I can share is that they have been in contact with our leader for a considerable period. Also, keep in mind that there’s a chance of an alliance that has been being discussed for a long time.”

Therefore, given the legal developments we are currently observing, along with the associated legal ambiguities, I believe there is some validity to this claim. Nevertheless, I cannot definitively verify its accuracy for you, but it’s important to understand that, to a significant degree, there is a chance it could occur.

Obi is very welcome in the party, not only him but also Kwankwaso. They have already spoken with our national leaders, so you should just keep an eye on things.

We were informed of their names approximately a month ago by the ADC. We are open to offering them the presidential nomination. We are prepared to do so—specifically in Providence, unless Providence has a different decision, in which case we are still open, and they will be joining us.

Leaders of the ADC consider switching to the NDC

Saturday PUNCH reported that following the Supreme Court ruling, additional party leaders were intending to switch to the NDC.

A leader from the ADC remarked, “There isn’t much cause for celebration,” in the ruling, cautioning that the significant case at the Federal High Court might still jeopardize the party.

There’s not much to rejoice about in the ruling. It’s similar to delaying the inevitable. The main issue is now before the Federal High Court, and we still have several challenges ahead.

If, as anticipated, the Tinubu government influences the courts against us, it will be too late for us, and could grant Tinubu an easy win.

That’s why, following the examination of the Supreme Court ruling, several of our coalition leaders, including the PDP under Turaki, have stated that we should not give up on finding a more secure platform. We must outmaneuver Tinubu in his own domain. We are looking into the NDC and aim to conclude talks on this within the next few days.

Nevertheless, we are also conscious of the President’s efforts to instigate conflicts within the NDC, a strategy they have consistently employed against all opposition parties. The People’s Redemption Party expressed willingness to collaborate with us, and within a day, the government introduced a group from that party. They intend to carry out a similar action in the NDC, but we will prevail.

A leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party also referred to the court’s decision as a threatening issue for the ADC.

“Is that a wise decision? There’s a trap coming. The ADC won’t be able to get out of it,” he stated, suggesting potential betrayals by important individuals, such as Obi and Kwankwaso.

“Something along those lines. That’s how it is,” he said when questioned about their potential departure.

An official from the NNPP also claimed there were intentions to create turmoil inside the NDC but stated belief that the party would endure the challenges.

We are aware of their intention to instigate a crisis within the NDC, but we trust our people will endure.

Previously, the NDC had openly extended to Obi and Kwankwaso a combined candidacy, providing them with a two-week period to switch allegiance and claim its presidential position.

“Just what we need right now—simply everything. Two weeks until the deadline,” the group mentioned.

Nevertheless, the National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi, refuted claims about an upcoming departure.

You’re simply informing me of that; I wasn’t aware of any decision by any of the coalition leaders to switch to a different platform.

He stated, “Ignoring the crises in opposition parties backed by Tinubu, his goal to be the sole candidate on the ballot will not succeed.”

Binani leaves the party for NDC

As a related update, Senator Aishatu Binani, a former candidate for governor of Adamawa State, officially became a member of the NDC on Friday.

Her betrayal occurred nine months after she departed the ruling All Progressives Congress to join the ADC.

Shortly after obtaining her NDC membership card, Binani cited the party’s dedication to organized administration and the impact of her political network as reasons for her choice.

She stated, “I believe many Nigerians are wondering why I chose to become part of the NDC. The reason is straightforward. Upon thoroughly reviewing the party’s constitution, I observed a clear dedication to organized, policy-focused leadership.”

“Some may point out that just nine months ago, I was at another party. Let me say clearly that I will never condemn where I came from. Politics is dynamic and often local in nature, and decisions are made based on prevailing realities.

Nevertheless, my top concern has consistently been the welfare of my supporters. Approximately nine months back, we as a group chose to rejoin our previous party. However, as time passed, for reasons only they understand, my supporters believed it was time to proceed elsewhere. They took action and encouraged me to join the NDC.

As she stated, the effort to become part of the NDC originated from her political supporters, who had already gained considerable influence within the party prior to her official membership.

She highlighted the crucial part her followers played in her political path, calling them the key factor in her successes and showing sincere appreciation for their dedication.

In greeting Binani and her followers, the National Leader of the NDC, Senator Seriake Dickson, characterized the party as an open forum prepared to welcome newcomers and grow its membership.

He stated, “This gathering is open, welcoming, and eager to utilize your energy, thoughts, and power. My beloved sister, once more, you are invited. As the chairman has accurately mentioned, the leadership banner of the NDC in Adamawa has now been passed on to you.”

We are certain that once the party’s democratic procedures are completed, we will reunite in Adamawa to formally interact with the citizens of the state and to keep advancing this movement collectively.

Let me also offer a general invitation to all Nigerian political leaders who might question the effectiveness, long-term stability, and resilience of their present political structures. The NDC is available. We are prepared to welcome you and collaborate.

For individuals who have already become members of other parties and are now seeing the truth, it’s still not too late. Don’t let anyone scare or trick you into thinking you can’t exit a political party after joining. That is not the law in Nigeria.

Each Nigerian is entitled by law to join any political party whenever they wish—and to leave whenever they choose. Politics is a path. If the vehicle you got on is no longer leading you to your goal, you have the right to get off and choose a more suitable one.

“The NDC is the better option—solid, dependable, and committed to achieving outcomes. Don’t hesitate, as delays can lead to significant costs,” he further stated.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).