In a significant development ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has welcomed a host of prominent politicians from across the country during a grand reception in Abuja. The event, held on Saturday, saw key leaders from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) officially pledge their allegiance to the NDC.
The party’s National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, alongside National Chairman Senator Moses Cleopas and other members of the National Working Committee, received the new entrants. Dickson described the mass defection as a testament to the growing confidence in the NDC’s vision for a renewed Nigeria.
Among the notable figures who joined were Comrade Babatunde Alli, former Deputy National Chairman of the PRP; Professor Mohammed Sani Yahaya, the NNPP’s 2023 governorship candidate in Taraba State; and Honourable Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, a former House of Representatives member and ex-board member of the Code of Conduct Bureau. They were accompanied by thousands of their supporters and political allies.
A key highlight of the event was the formal presentation of membership cards to the new members, signifying their full integration into the party. Senator Dickson noted that their decision reflects a widespread belief in the NDC’s commitment to inclusive governance and national renewal.
Senator Moses Cleopas urged the new members to uphold the party’s core values and work collaboratively to strengthen internal unity and expand the party’s reach across the country.
Comrade Babatunde Alli explained that his exit from the PRP followed careful consideration of the party’s internal challenges. He stated, “Every political party in Nigeria needs inclusivity, youth participation, and fair processes. When these are lacking, it becomes difficult to remain. The emergence of the NDC has given me hope that politics can be done differently, with fairness and purpose.”
Professor Mohammed Sani Yahaya affirmed his commitment to building the NDC from the grassroots. He declared, “From the polling unit to the ward, local government, and state level, we are joining the NDC completely. We have laid the foundation; now we are completing the structure with the NDC. Insha’Allah, 2027 is our year, and we are fully dedicated to spreading the NDC’s message across Taraba State.”
Honourable Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma expressed deep concern over the state of the nation but voiced optimism in the NDC as a credible alternative. He remarked, “Nigeria is hurting and searching for direction. What was sold to us as ‘Renewed Hope’ has, for many, become renewed hopelessness. Our country is blessed but mismanaged. We must tackle corruption and restore trust in governance. I believe the NDC offers a platform for that renewal and for bringing back hope to Nigerians.”