The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has started recruiting, screening, and training polling agents nationwide to strengthen its electoral machinery ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party assured its members and supporters that adequate structures are being put in place to protect its votes from polling units through the collation process. This move is part of the party's efforts to improve its grassroots structures and coordination.
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the NDC has inaugurated a committee to coordinate the recruitment, screening, training, and deployment of polling and ward agents across the country. Prospective agents are being identified, and their names are being collated for screening and training before deployment to polling units. This initiative aims to ensure the NDC has adequate representation across polling units and other stages of the electoral process.
The NDC clarified the role of support groups backing its presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, and vice-presidential candidate, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. The party described the Obidient Movement and other support organisations as important partners in grassroots mobilisation and voter engagement. However, it stressed that these groups must operate within the framework of the party and the mandates assigned to them.
The NDC welcomed genuine support groups, assuring them that they would be accommodated within its broader campaign structure. Support groups are expected to complement the party's activities by mobilising voters, promoting the candidates, and strengthening grassroots outreach. The party emphasised that such groups cannot assume the constitutional and organisational responsibilities of the political party.
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Alhaji Abubakar Lawal, has formally joined the NDC and declared his support for the Obi-Kwankwaso presidential ticket. Lawal cited the duo's previous experience in public office and records in governance as reasons for his support. He urged Nigerians to participate actively in the democratic process and support efforts aimed at addressing the country's socio-economic challenges.
The NDC responded to questions about its performance in recent by-elections, saying its strategic focus is on building nationwide structures ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party expressed confidence in the ability of its presidential ticket to attract support from different sections of the country. It also condemned reported cases of violence and intimidation against opposition parties in some parts of the country.
The party called on security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible for political violence, warning that unchecked intimidation could undermine confidence in the electoral process. The NDC urged its members and supporters to remain vigilant during voting and collation, reaffirming its commitment to peaceful political engagement and democratic participation ahead of the 2027 elections.
Key points
- The NDC has started recruiting, screening, and training polling agents nationwide to strengthen its electoral machinery.
- Former SGF Lawal joins NDC, supports Obi-Kwankwaso ticket.
- The party condemns political violence, intimidation, and calls for peaceful engagement.
