Former Kano governor and ex-presidential candidate cite national unity, youth empowerment and urgent reforms as they embrace a new platform amid deepening party crises.

By Ifeoma Onyekachi

In a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Peter Obi on Sunday formally defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), signalling a fresh alignment ahead of future political contests.

The two political heavyweights made their declaration in Abuja shortly after disengaging from the African Democratic Congress (ADC). They were received at the party’s national secretariat by NDC National Leader, Seriake Dickson.

Both leaders framed their move as part of a broader effort to stabilise Nigeria’s political environment and refocus governance on development priorities. They emphasised national unity, youth inclusion and the need to end persistent internal party crises that have weakened the country’s political system.

Kwankwaso praised the NDC leadership for what he described as a clear vision for national development, noting that engagements with the party revealed strong alignment on key issues such as education reform and empowerment of young people and women.

He stressed that political parties must go beyond electoral ambitions to serve as vehicles for social progress and inclusion, urging Nigerians to actively participate in the democratic process through party structures.

“We must build a peaceful and united country where political platforms drive real development,” he said, adding that stakeholders had agreed to remain committed to peace, unity and progress.

Obi, in his remarks, underscored the urgency of tackling Nigeria’s economic and social challenges, warning that widespread unemployment and underutilisation of human capital pose serious risks to national growth.

“It is unacceptable that over half of our population is not productively engaged,” he said, calling for decisive action to unlock Nigeria’s potential.

He attributed recent political defections to lingering internal disputes and legal battles within parties, urging leaders to abandon infighting and prioritise citizens’ welfare.

“Nigeria is going through difficult times. Our focus must shift from conflict to nation-building,” Obi said, highlighting the need to confront poverty, insecurity and economic hardship.

Welcoming the defectors, Dickson described the NDC as an ideologically driven platform committed to inclusiveness, integrity and progressive governance.

Also speaking, the party’s National Chairman, Moses Cleopas, said the development marks a turning point for the party, describing it as part of a broader movement aimed at “rescuing Nigeria.”

He commended supporters at home and in the diaspora, urging sustained commitment to unity and national development.

The event drew party leaders, lawmakers and supporters from across the country, underscoring what observers see as a strategic push by the NDC to strengthen its national presence and political relevance.