The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has sparked a fresh row with some support groups backing its 2027 presidential ticket. The party recently announced a free registration exercise for support groups, but some groups, including the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement and the Kwankwassiya groups, have expressed disagreement. The NDC's National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, stated that the registration was exclusive to the Directorate of Support Groups at the party's national headquarters in Abuja.
The Director-General of the OK Movement, John Ughulu, has rejected the registration exercise, insisting that the movement remains an independent political organization. Ughulu argued that the movement's existence and internal affairs do not require the approval of the NDC leadership. He warned that the movement would resist any attempt to undermine, appropriate, or dissolve its structure. The OK Movement's stance has created tension between the party and the support group.
The spokesman for the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Habibu Muhammed, has called for understanding between the party and the support groups. Muhammed attributed the disagreements to the NDC's attempt to establish new structures as an emerging political party. He emphasized that the ultimate goal is to support the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket and that the party should create an acceptable atmosphere for support groups to operate without unnecessary restrictions.
Muhammed highlighted that several associations are working to support the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket without seeking anything in return. He noted that a large chunk of members from these groups and movements are from other parties who agree to work together for the ticket. Muhammed urged the party to borrow a leaf from the scores of support groups working in sync with the ruling All Progressives Congress without any of them being forced to register with the APC.
The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, has urged the various groups to avoid disagreements that could distract from the 2027 presidential election. Tanko emphasized that the NDC is the platform on which Peter Obi is contesting and that support groups should focus on helping him secure victory. He called on the groups to work together to ensure that Obi wins the election.
The disagreements between the NDC and the support groups have raised concerns about the party's ability to manage its relationships with independent groups. The party's attempt to establish new structures has created tension with some support groups, which are demanding a more flexible approach. The NDC's leadership will need to find a way to balance its goals with the demands of its support groups.
The outcome of the disagreements between the NDC and the support groups will likely have implications for the 2027 presidential election. The party's ability to work with its support groups will be crucial in determining its success in the election. The NDC's leadership will need to navigate the complex relationships between the party and its support groups to ensure a successful outcome.
Key points
- The NDC's registration exercise for support groups has sparked a fresh row with some groups backing Peter Obi's 2027 presidential bid.
- The OK Movement has rejected the registration exercise, citing its independence from the NDC.
- The Kwankwasiyya Movement has called for understanding between the party and the support groups, emphasizing the need for a flexible approach.
