NDC Enforces Anti-Defection Policies Ahead of 2027 Elections

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has introduced stringent anti-defection policies that mandate its governorship and national assembly candidates to sign indemnity forms and swear affidavits ahead of the 2027 general elections. This decision was announced by NDC Chairman Moses Cleopa during a ceremony in Abuja.

Cleopa emphasized that the elector mandate fundamentally belongs to the party and not to individual candidates, stating that elected officials who leave the party after winning cannot retain their seats. The NDC aims to build long-term institutional discipline and halt the widespread political culture of post-election defections in Nigeria.

Legal advisor Reuben Egwuaba provided context, explaining that the mandatory affidavits will serve as binding legal undertakings, and candidates must understand and accept the party's anti-defection terms. He noted that while the constitution protects freedom of association, it does not automatically allow politicians to transfer their electoral mandates to rival political platforms.