The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) says it will tighten its screening process for aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections to prevent individuals from benefiting from the popularity of prominent political figures such as Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
Party spokesperson Osa Director said the decision was informed by lessons learned from the 2023 general elections, when several relatively unknown candidates joined opposition platforms, won elections, and later defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Director said the party is taking extra steps to ensure that only credible and committed aspirants are allowed to contest under its banner.
“We have learnt from the incident of the past… a lot of people, especially from the diaspora, rushed to get a form under the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress,” he said.
He added that some aspirants were attempting to “ride on the Obi-Kwankwaso wave,” describing the NDC as a growing alternative political platform in the country.
According to him, all aspirants are now being subjected to stricter screening, including checks on their political background, experience, and commitment to party values.
“If you are not on the ground, who is going to vote for you?” he said, stressing that electoral success must be rooted in genuine political engagement rather than popularity by association.
Director said the party would only field candidates with verifiable records and clear alignment with its principles, adding that it was determined to avoid past mistakes seen in other opposition parties.
The remarks reflect growing efforts within opposition parties to strengthen internal structures and prevent post-election defections that have previously weakened their political base.
