The National Democratic Coalition (NDC) has been hit by a fresh internal crisis as the influential Obi-Kwankwaso movement has openly rejected attempts to take control of the party structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Sources within the party revealed that the disagreement started after moves by some NDC chieftains to dissolve the movement's independent structure and force its members to fully align with the party's central leadership. The move has been described by loyalists of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso as an attempt to hijack their political base.
Why Obi-Kwankwaso Movement Rejected NDC Control
According to insiders, the Obi-Kwankwaso movement insisted on maintaining its autonomy and grassroots structure which delivered massive support during the 2023 elections. The group reportedly told NDC leaders that they would rather operate as a strategic alliance than be absorbed completely into the party's hierarchy.
The development has created tension in several state chapters, with meetings ending in deadlock as both sides failed to reach a compromise.
A senior member of the movement who spoke on condition of anonymity said the attempt to control them was a recipe for another electoral failure. The leadership of the NDC is yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
“We built this movement with the people, not with party politics. Nobody can take control of what the people own. We are ready to work together, but not as slaves to any party structure”
The statement is seen as a direct response to alleged pressure from NDC governors and stakeholders who want to use the Obi-Kwankwaso popularity to reposition the party ahead of 2027. Political analysts say the rejection may force the NDC to renegotiate its coalition terms.
What This Crisis Means for NDC Ahead of 2027
The fresh crisis comes at a time when the NDC is trying to present itself as a united opposition front capable of challenging the ruling party in 2027. With Peter Obi and Kwankwaso commanding millions of supporters, especially among youths in the North and South-East, losing their movement could weaken the party's chances.
Some stakeholders are already calling for an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to resolve the impasse before it escalates further.
2027 Coalition in Danger?
Observers note that similar control battles destroyed opposition alliances in the past. If not managed carefully, the current rift could push the Obi-Kwankwaso movement to float a new platform or return to their former parties.
For now, supporters of both leaders have taken to social media to declare loyalty to the movement over the party.
M2NICE Editorial Note: This crisis shows a repeat of Nigeria's old coalition problem where individual popularity clashes with party supremacy. Unless the NDC allows the Obi-Kwankwaso movement to operate independently within the alliance, the 2027 opposition dream may collapse before it even starts.
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