The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has exempted its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, from a newly introduced loyalty oath designed to prevent elected officials from defecting to other political platforms after winning elections.

Party Defends Policy Against Constitutional Criticisms

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the National Secretary of the NDC, Ikenna Enekweizu, defended the policy against critics who argue it violates constitutional provisions. Enekweizu stated that the loyalty affidavit is legally backed by the party's internal constitution. He explained that political parties operate as voluntary associations, meaning members are legally bound by the rules and decisions established by the organization's governing authorities.

Focus Directed at Legislative Defections

While the party's constitution technically mandates all electoral candidates to sign the pledge, Enekweizu clarified that the leadership made an administrative decision to exclude the presidential and vice-presidential candidates from the requirement.

Instead, the NDC is focusing the anti-defection measure primarily on National Assembly and state House of Assembly members, who the party notes are the most likely to abandon their platform shortly after securing office.

Safeguarding Institutional Integrity

The introduction of the anti-defection oath comes as a direct response to a recent wave of political defections that the NDC believes has weakened various political parties across the country. Through this measure, the leadership aims to protect its institutional integrity and ensure that politicians do not treat the party solely as a temporary vehicle for electoral victory.