Nigeria's NDC party disowns OK Movement campaign council

Political tensions are rising in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially disowned a 59-member Presidential Campaign Council established by the Obi-Kwankwaso (OK) Movement. NDC National Chairman Senator Moses Cleopas stated that the council was unauthorised and that only the party leadership has the authority to constitute such structures. In response, the OK Movement, which supports the presidential bid of Peter Obi and running mate Rabiu Kwankwaso, asserted its independence, stating it does not require personal validation from party individuals to perform its functions.

The dispute has led to further instability within the movement, including the resignation of the National Head of Operations, Francis Nnoli, who cited a disconnect between the grassroots and the NDC. Simultaneously, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has launched attacks on Peter Obi’s record, claiming that disclosures from the Anambra State government reveal significant external debts and unpaid salaries during his tenure as governor, contradicting his image of fiscal prudence.

In other developments, approximately 5,000 members of the PDP in Ogun State have defected to the APC. Additionally, the South-East chapter of the NDC has begun strengthening its structure in the Federal Capital Territory to boost mobilisation for the upcoming elections.