NDC Withdraws Recognition of Diaspora Chapters

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has withdrawn formal recognition of all its chapters outside Nigeria, following a court judgment that bars political parties registered in the country from operating beyond its borders.

The decision was announced on Sunday, October 18, 2026, in a statement by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director.

The NDC said it acted in deference to a subsisting ruling by Justice Peter Kekemeke of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja.

The case, Prof. Ali Alao v. All Progressives Congress (APC) & Anor, Suit No. CV/187/2025, held that “no political party registered in Nigeria has the legal authority to establish, operate or supervise chapters outside the country’s territorial boundaries”.

The court further described diaspora chapters of Nigerian political parties as “illegal, unconstitutional, and unknown to the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

A Party Bound by Due Process

Director said the NDC’s leadership reviewed its relationship with foreign chapters and resolved to withhold recognition.

“In deference to the said judgment, the NDC is halting recognition of foreign chapters of the party, and all earlier recognitions are hereby withdrawn,” he said.

The party, however, expressed appreciation for the support it has received from Nigerians abroad.

“We are deeply appreciative of the immense support of various foreign chapters in the diaspora. We are grateful for their unwavering loyalty, guidance, and contributions to the party,” Director said.

He added that the judgment has been referred to the party’s Legal Department for further advice.

In jurisdictions where multiple diaspora groups exist, the NDC has started a harmonisation process to bring them under one umbrella.

Obi Supporters Urged to Stay Engaged

Despite the withdrawal, the NDC acknowledged the strong interest Nigerians abroad have shown in its candidates, particularly its presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

“We encourage our supporters in the diaspora to continue to meet and interact, and we shall remain in touch with them through appropriate and legal channels,” Director said.

The party also repeated its criticism of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), calling for collective effort to “rescue Nigeria from its present state of drift and hopelessness foisted on it by the rudderless APC”.