By Nkechi Eze
A coalition of youth leaders and political groups from across the country on Tuesday formally defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), declaring their support for what they described as a more inclusive and people-oriented political platform.
The defection was announced during a solidarity visit to the National Leader of the NDC, Henry Seriake Dickson, in Abuja. The group was led by former Special Adviser on Youth Matters at the APC National Headquarters, Nasir Lawal.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Lawal said their decision to leave the APC followed growing dissatisfaction with the party’s internal structure and direction. According to him, many young members had become “internally displaced” within the party due to what he described as increasing marginalisation of youth and women in its decision-making processes.
He argued that the ruling party had gradually drifted from its founding ideals, with key party activities and campaign structures now dominated by a narrow circle of political elites, including serving and former governors, lawmakers, and influential insiders.
Lawal further alleged that grassroots members who had contributed significantly to the party’s growth were increasingly sidelined, while political opportunities and resources were concentrated among a select few. This situation, he noted, had created widespread frustration and disillusionment among loyal supporters.
He also criticised what he described as the party’s growing disconnect from pressing national challenges, particularly insecurity affecting parts of the country, accusing its leadership of focusing more on political calculations ahead of future elections than on governance.
Lawal explained that the decision to align with the NDC followed extensive consultations with grassroots stakeholders across several states and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as discussions with political figures within the APC who supported the move.
“Politics must reflect the interests of the masses,” Lawal said, noting that the shift to the NDC represented a collective commitment to building a more inclusive and participatory political movement.
Responding, Dickson welcomed the new members into the party and praised their decision, describing it as an act of courage and patriotism.
“I am impressed with the quality and capacity of Nigerian youths. They have what it takes to offer leadership and change the narrative of governance in our country,” he said.
The former Bayelsa State governor assured the defectors of full integration into the party, directing that they be linked with NDC state chairmen across the country to facilitate their active participation in the party’s structures at all levels.
He reiterated the NDC’s commitment to inclusivity and participatory politics, highlighting existing party policies that promote youth engagement and affirmative action for women. According to him, party members are free to contest elective positions based on their competence and qualifications.
Dickson stressed that Nigeria’s greatest asset remains its human capital and expressed confidence in the ability of young people to drive meaningful political and social transformation.
“The NDC is a party for all Nigerians,” he said, urging the new members to mobilise others to join the movement.
He also revealed that he recently met with women political leaders from different parts of the country who had similarly aligned with the NDC, noting that they had been integrated into state party structures in accordance with the party’s inclusion policy.
“In line with our affirmative policy, women must play active roles in leadership. We will continue to promote greater inclusivity across all levels,” he added.
The development marks a notable shift within Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, particularly among youth constituencies, and signals possible realignments ahead of future electoral cycles.
