NDC Exempts Peter Obi, Kwankwaso from Anti-Defection Oath

The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has revealed that its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, will not be required to sign the party's newly introduced anti-defection oath. This announcement was made by NDC spokesman Ikenna Enekweizu during an interview on a political program on Wednesday.

Enekweizu defended the legal measure, stating that political parties function as voluntary associations and members are strictly bound by internal rules. He emphasized that the requirement to sign an affidavit is fully backed by the NDC constitution.

The party leadership has the discretion to excuse its top two standard bearers from this mandate. Enekweizu clarified that the primary focus of the anti-defection policy is to protect legislative seats under the party's umbrella rather than to target the executive branch.

The NDC aims to build a durable political institution and prevent politicians from exploiting the party as a temporary stepping stone to public office.