The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), a major opposition party in Nigeria, has withdrawn recognition of its diaspora chapters, citing a court judgement restricting political parties in Nigeria from establishing branches outside the country. According to Daily Post Nigeria, the party disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director. In the statement, the NDC acknowledged the support of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, but distanced itself from any official relationship with its diaspora chapters. The decision comes as the country gears up for the 2027 general elections. A similar report was published by Tribune Online, which reported that the court judgement declared the establishment of foreign branches by political parties in Nigeria illegal.
The withdrawal of recognition of diaspora chapters by the NDC is significant given the increasing influence of Nigerians living abroad in the country’s politics. The NDC’s decision could set a precedent for other political parties in Nigeria to follow suit, potentially limiting the ability of Nigerians abroad to participate in the political process.
This development comes amidst a heated political climate in Nigeria, with the 2027 general elections looming. The NDC, along with other major opposition parties, is expected to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the elections. The withdrawal of recognition of diaspora chapters could be seen as a strategic move by the NDC to comply with the court judgement and avoid any legal challenges that may arise from the establishment of foreign branches.
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