Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, and former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, have officially joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s opposition landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Both leaders received their membership cards on Sunday, May 3, 2026, following a closed-door meeting with party leaders, where they were formally welcomed into the fold amid applause from supporters.
The duo, who recently exited the African Democratic Congress (ADC), were received by former Bayelsa State Governor and NDC national leader, Seriake Dickson, who described their entry as a turning point for the party and the country.
Speaking at the event, Obi called for unity within the party and urged members to avoid internal disputes that could derail its progress.
He appealed to the Federal Government not to interfere in the party’s affairs, stressing the importance of maintaining a free and open democratic space.
“Let there be no litigation. We want to build a party that Nigerians, including women and children, can be proud of. Our focus should be on solving the problems affecting ordinary Nigerians, not fighting ourselves in court,” he said.
Obi added that the party aims to form a government capable of addressing insecurity, hunger, and economic hardship, ensuring citizens can live without fear and uncertainty.
He also encouraged Nigerians and his supporters nationwide to join the NDC, describing it as a platform committed to national development.
Kwankwaso, in his remarks, urged Nigerians to begin registering with the party immediately, revealing that his supporters had already commenced the process.
Earlier, Dickson described the NDC as a fast-growing and stable political platform with no internal factions or ongoing litigation, assuring members of a united structure.
He expressed confidence in the leadership qualities of Obi and Kwankwaso, noting that their experience would strengthen the party’s vision and direction.
The development comes amid ongoing political realignments among opposition figures seeking to build a formidable front ahead of the next general elections.
Obi had previously left the Labour Party in December 2025 to join the ADC alongside prominent figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and others. However, the ADC was later engulfed in prolonged leadership disputes and legal battles, leading to internal divisions and weakened cohesion.
Citing deepening crises and lack of unity within the party, Obi announced his departure from the ADC, stating that his decision was guided by his commitment to a functional and principled political platform.
His move, alongside Kwankwaso’s, signals a new phase in the opposition’s efforts to reposition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Obi, Kwankwaso Join NDC Amid Fresh Opposition Realignment Ahead of 2027
