NDC accuses APC of offering inducements to defecting candidates

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of offering money, political appointments and other incentives to persuade some of its candidates to defect ahead of the forthcoming elections.

The opposition party described the defections as a betrayal of its principles, insisting that those who had left were not genuinely committed to its ideals.

The NDC National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, made the allegations in a statement, saying the party was aware of what he described as attempts by the APC to weaken its ranks ahead of the elections.

Director said those who accepted the alleged inducements had demonstrated a lack of ideological commitment to the party. He added that the NDC would not allow the defections to derail its political ambitions.

The party announced plans to conduct fresh congresses to select replacement candidates in constituencies affected by the defections. It said the process would follow the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and produce candidates it considers credible, competent and committed to its principles.

The NDC also urged its members and supporters not to be discouraged by the development, accusing the APC of resorting to underhanded tactics because of concerns about its electoral prospects.

Reaffirming its commitment to challenging the ruling party, the NDC said it remained focused on addressing Nigeria’s governance, security and economic challenges, promising to offer an alternative centred on improved governance, national security and economic prosperity.

Meanwhile, the party’s Bauchi State chapter has insisted that it remains in the 2027 governorship race despite the resignation of its candidate, Ibrahim Kashim, a former Secretary to the State Government.

Kashim, in a resignation letter dated October 16, 2026, reportedly described his decision as a matter of personal choice.

The NDC chairman in Bauchi State, Abdullahi Misau, said the party would seek legal advice on the implications of Kashim’s departure. He expressed disappointment over the development but acknowledged that political actors had the right to make decisions based on their personal interests and convictions.

Misau, however, argued that the party’s participation in the election was not necessarily over because a running mate remained in place.

He maintained that the governorship candidate and running mate contest as a joint ticket under the electoral framework, adding that the party leadership would continue mobilising support across Bauchi State.

The state chairman assured members and supporters that the NDC remained committed to its political ambitions despite the candidate’s resignation.