The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed the defection of some of its candidates to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing their departure as “good riddance to bad rubbish” ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The opposition party accused the APC of allegedly offering money, political appointments and other material incentives to lure its candidates away, claiming the defections were motivated by personal interests rather than genuine political conviction.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the NDC said it was aware of what it described as attempts by the ruling party to weaken its ranks as preparations for the next general election gather momentum.
The party alleged that some of its candidates had accepted inducements to abandon its platform and join the APC.
Reacting to their departure, Director said the affected politicians had demonstrated a lack of commitment to the NDC’s principles and values.
“For those who have fallen for this bait, it is clear that they lack the values, virtues, and ideological commitment associated with our great party. They were never truly of us,” the statement said.
The party added that it wished the defectors well in what it described as their political misadventures, insisting that their departure would not derail its plans for the 2027 elections.
Rather than dwell on the development, the NDC announced plans to conduct fresh congresses to select replacement candidates in the affected constituencies.
It said the exercise would be guided by the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, with the aim of selecting candidates it considers credible, competent and committed to the party’s objectives.
The NDC also urged its members, supporters and Nigerians who identify with its political agenda not to be discouraged by the defections.
Director described the alleged inducement of opposition candidates as a sign of desperation by the ruling party, expressing confidence that the APC would face a strong challenge in the forthcoming elections.
He maintained that the NDC remained committed to providing Nigerians with an alternative political platform focused on good governance, improved security and economic prosperity.
The latest disagreement comes amid increasing political realignments as parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections. The movement of candidates between political platforms has intensified debate over party loyalty, political ideology and the influence of financial incentives in Nigeria’s electoral process.
The APC had not publicly responded to the NDC’s bribery allegations at the time of reporting.
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