NDC cools defection rumours, insists talks with key political figures including Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso remain exploratory.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) on Friday sought to calm growing speculation that Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso are set to defect to the party, stating that while discussions are ongoing, no agreement has been reached.

Speaking on the matter, the party’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Abdulmumin Ohiare Abdulsalam, described recent media reports as “over-sensational,” clarifying that his earlier comments only addressed “potential scenarios” rather than confirmed developments.
“We do not object to engaging with the press on matters of political importance,” Abdulsalam said. “However, such reporting must accurately reflect both the context and the facts.”
He explained that the party operates an “open-door policy” and likened the NDC to a “Noah’s Ark” for politicians dissatisfied with their current platforms. Despite this, he stressed that the party is not actively seeking to lure or pressure individuals to defect.
“Ab initio, we have been encouraging politicians to consider joining the NDC,” he stated. “But we fully respect their right to make independent decisions.”
The NDC confirmed it is engaging with political figures across various parties, including members of the APC, while also acknowledging ongoing opposition discussions about a possible alliance ahead of the 2027 general election.
Regarding Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso specifically, the party maintained a neutral position—neither confirming nor ruling out the possibility of their eventual defection.