As the inaugural National Convention of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) wraps up in Abuja, the political landscape is changing.
With the formal entry of heavyweights like Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the NDC has rapidly evolved from a new entrant to a potentially formidable challenger.
The atmosphere in Abuja was electric as the “Obidient” and “Kwankwasiyya” movements officially merged. In a landmark consensus, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) adopted Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as their joint presidential ticket for 2027.
This “South-North” alliance follows a strategic decision by delegates from all 36 states to zone the presidency to the South.
However, the path isn’t without hurdles. The All Democratic Alliance (ADA), led by Umar Ardo, is still challenging INEC and the NDC, alleging in a lawsuit against them that the party bypassed the mandatory 2025 screening process.
NDC leadership, however, dismissed the suit as a backdoor attempt by rivals to de-market their growing influence.
Thr NDC is enjoying some undeniable momentum. Already, 17 members of the House of Representatives have defected from the ADC to join the NDC. By consolidating the fractured remnants of the PDP and ADC, the NDC has positioned itself as the primary alternative to the ruling APC.
But whether this coalition can survive the inevitable pressures of a Nigerian election cycle remains the big question for 2027.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
