The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has announced the withdrawal of recognition previously granted to its chapters operating outside Nigeria, citing a subsisting court judgement restricting political parties from establishing foreign-based chapters.
In a statement, the party said the decision followed a review of its relationship with its diaspora chapters.
According to the statement, Justice Peter Kekemeke of the FCT High Court in Maitama ruled that Nigerian political parties have no legal authority to establish, operate or supervise chapters outside the country’s territorial boundaries.
The party said it is withholding recognition in deference to the judgement, adding that the matter has been referred to its Legal Department for further advice and guidance.
The NDC, however, expressed appreciation to its diaspora supporters for their loyalty, contributions and continued interest in the party.
It also disclosed that a harmonisation process has commenced in jurisdictions where multiple groups exist, with a view to bringing them under one umbrella.
The NDC further reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, transparency and due process, while calling on Nigerians at home and abroad to work collectively towards building what it described as a new Nigeria.
The NDC says it will continue to engage with its supporters in the diaspora through lawful channels as it studies the court judgement and awaits further legal guidance.
(Follow AIT News on WhatsApp, AfricaIndependentTV on YouTube, ait_online on Facebook and X (Formerly Twitter), and officialait on TikTok, Instagram and Threads)
Editor: Terverr Tyav
