The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has firmly denied allegations that its presidential running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, ever intended to depart from the party. Osa Director, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, clarified that these rumors are baseless and stem from efforts to discredit the NDC.
During an interview on Arise News, Director pointed fingers at the ruling party and certain opposition figures for fueling these false narratives. He emphasized that Kwankwaso never made any threats to leave, calling the reports mere conjecture spread by those who wish to undermine the party’s progress.
Director also highlighted instances of internal interference, particularly in Delta State, where an incumbent allegedly backed multiple aspirants against the party’s candidate, Collins Edema. This, he said, reflects the real challenges the NDC faces, not internal defection threats.
The controversy arose after media reports suggested Kwankwaso was unhappy with the replacement of his preferred candidates in Kano State, allegedly violating a power-sharing agreement. However, the NDC insists that the changes were made to honor the initial pact between the party structure and the Kwankwasiyya faction.
A document from the Kano State NDC Chairman, Hon. Hussaini Isah Mairiga, confirmed that the candidate substitutions were necessary to uphold the earlier agreement on ticket distribution. The party maintains that these adjustments were procedural and not a trigger for any departure threat.