BY EMMA PETER, ABUJA
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced the withdrawal of recognition previously granted to its diaspora chapters, citing a subsisting court judgment restricting Nigerian political parties from establishing chapters outside the country.
According to a statement signed by Osa Director Esq, National Publicity Secretary of the NDC, on October 18, 2026, the decision followed a review of the party’s relationship with its foreign-based chapters.
The party said its decision was informed by a judgment delivered by Justice Peter Kekemeke of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Maitama, in the case of Prof. Ali Alao v. All Progressives Congress (APC) & Anor, Suit No. CV/187/2025.
The NDC stated that the court held that political parties registered in Nigeria lacked the legal authority to establish, operate or supervise chapters outside the country’s territorial boundaries.
The party also cited the court’s position that diaspora chapters of Nigerian political parties were illegal, unconstitutional and not recognised under Nigerian law.
“In deference to the said judgment, the NDC is halting recognition of foreign chapters of the party and all earlier recognitions are hereby withdrawn,” the statement said.
Despite the decision, the party expressed appreciation to Nigerians in the diaspora for their loyalty, support, guidance and contributions to its activities.
The NDC further disclosed that it had initiated a harmonisation process in jurisdictions where multiple groups existed under the party’s name, with a view to bringing them under one umbrella.
It added that the judgment was being studied and had been referred to its Legal Department for further advice and guidance.
The party acknowledged the interest of Nigerians living abroad in its candidates, particularly its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and encouraged them to sustain their enthusiasm and commitment.
While withdrawing formal recognition from the diaspora chapters, the NDC urged its supporters abroad to continue meeting and interacting, assuring them that the party would maintain communication through appropriate and lawful channels.
The statement also called on Nigerians to work collectively towards building a better country, criticising the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over what it described as Nigeria’s present state of drift and hopelessness.
The party concluded with its slogan: “A New Nigeria is Possible!”
