Two leading Nigerian opposition figures, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, have defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress ahead of next year’s presidential election, signalling a major political realignment.
The pair, who placed third and fourth respectively in the 2023 vote, were formally received at the party’s headquarters in Abuja last Sunday. Their move has fuelled speculation of a possible joint ticket to challenge President Bola Tinubu.
Both leaders bring strong grassroots backing, with Obi drawing support from younger voters in the south and Kwankwaso commanding influence in the north. Their exit from the African Democratic Congress—just months after joining—follows internal disputes and legal battles over party leadership.
While supporters argue the shift could sharpen opposition focus, critics warn it may further fragment an already divided front. Analysts say a united NDC ticket could mount a serious challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress, though lingering divisions within opposition ranks remain a key risk.
Presidential aides have downplayed the defections as routine political movement, maintaining that the government remains focused on governance. Elections are scheduled for early January next year.