NDC disowns OK Movement campaign council list

The Nigeria Democratic Congress has rejected a presidential campaign council announced by the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement, saying the list did not come from the party.

The dispute followed the publication of a 59-member council by the OK Movement ahead of the 2027 elections. The NDC said no candidate, support group or individual had authority to create campaign structures in the party’s name without approval from its National Working Committee.

The party’s national chairman, Moses Cleopas, said the council announcement should be disregarded by the public and the media. Punch, Premium Times and Daily Post all reported that the statement was issued on Saturday after the OK Movement list was unveiled days earlier.

The OK Movement is linked to support for Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, who have been presented in the reports as the NDC’s presidential and vice-presidential candidates. Premium Times reported that Cleopas warned party members and candidates not to attend meetings or activities connected with the council unless the party gives written approval.

The party said the warning was meant to protect its internal structure and prevent unauthorised campaign organs from speaking in its name. The development shows early tension between formal party control and outside support groups before the 2027 campaign season gathers pace.

Sources: Punch, Premium Times, Daily Post