By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a clarification distancing itself from media reports suggesting that it confirmed the imminent defection of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Peter Gregory Obi to its platform, describing such interpretations as misleading and sensational.
According to an official signed statement by the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party, Hon. Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, his earlier remarks to a journalist during a phone-in inquiry were speculative in nature and should not be construed as confirmation of any planned political movement by the two prominent figures.
The statement explained that his response to the inquiry was framed within the context of probability rather than certainty, stressing that it reflected a general perspective on political developments rather than insider knowledge of any concluded or imminent defections. He noted that such engagements with the media are part of routine political communication, provided that responses are reported accurately and within context.
The party further expressed concern over what it described as the over-sensationalisation of the report by some media outlets, which it said has led to widespread misinterpretation in the public space.
Reiterating its established position, the NDC maintained that it remains open to receiving politicians from across the political spectrum but does not compel or pre-empt defections. The statement recalled that the party has consistently encouraged both ruling and opposition politicians to align with its ideological framework, metaphorically described as a “Noah’s Ark” initiative championed by its national leadership.
The party emphasised that political actors retain the constitutional freedom to associate with any platform of their choice, adding that ongoing engagements with stakeholders across party lines, including members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), should not be misconstrued as confirmation of specific defections.
While acknowledging ongoing discussions among opposition figures regarding possible alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, the NDC stated that it has not taken any definitive position confirming the defection of Kwankwaso, Obi, or any other political leader.
The party concluded by reaffirming its commitment to maintaining an open-door policy for individuals willing to join its fold in pursuit of what it described as a collective national rescue agenda.
