Nigeria: NDC Woos Obi, Kwankwaso As Opposition Faults INEC Deadline

27 April 2026

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has urged Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso to defect from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and contest the 2027 presidential election on its platform.

In a post shared on X on Sunday, the party indicated that both politicians have a narrow window of about two weeks to make the move and secure its presidential ticket.

"All we need right now. Just all we need. Two weeks to the deadline," the party wrote.

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The call comes amid growing speculation over a possible alliance between Obi and Kwankwaso. Their supporters recently launched the "OK Movement" to mobilise backing for a joint ticket ahead of the 2027 elections, with organisers announcing national, zonal, and state structures.

The development is unfolding against the backdrop of internal challenges within the ADC, where a leadership dispute continues to cast doubt on the party's preparedness.

On April 22, the Supreme Court of Nigeria reserved judgment in an appeal filed by a faction led by David Mark against a suit instituted by a rival faction headed by Nafiu Bala.

Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed May 30, 2026, as the deadline for political parties to submit membership registers and nominate candidates for the 2027 general elections.

Opposition parties, including factions of the ADC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), have criticised the timetable, calling for an extension of the deadline for party primaries to the end of July.

They argue that the current schedule is too tight and could hinder adequate preparation for the elections.

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