NDC Introduces Anti-Defection Oath for Candidates

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has implemented a new anti-defection policy that mandates candidates seeking election on its platform to sign a legal document committing to vacate their positions if they leave the party after winning. This policy was disclosed during a ceremony at the party's national secretariat in Abuja, where party officials unveiled an indemnity affidavit form for aspiring candidates.

NDC's national chairman, Mose Cleopa, stated that the policy will apply to candidates contesting presidential, governorship, and national assembly positions. The decision aims to strengthen party discipline and prevent situations where politicians secure electoral victories on the party's platform and later defect to other parties.

Cleopa noted that previous elections have shown that opposition parties have lost several elected members despite securing victories. The party insists that membership remains voluntary and that candidates must abide by the party's internal regulations.

Legal advisor Reuben Egwuaba defended the policy, emphasizing that political parties operate as voluntary associations governed by rules.