The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of inducing some of its candidates to defect through alleged bribery, political appointments and other material incentives.
The party described the defectors as compromised politicians who lacked ideological commitment, saying their departure would not derail its political ambitions.
The NDC stated this in a press statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, Esq., in Abuja.
In the statement, titled “Defection of Some Compromised Candidates to APC: Good Riddance to Bad Rubbish,” the party alleged that the APC had adopted desperate tactics to lure some of its candidates into its fold for financial and personal gains.
The NDC said it was aware of what it described as the ruling party’s attempts to weaken its ranks by offering money, political appointments and other benefits to candidates willing to defect.
Reacting to the development, the opposition party said those who accepted the alleged offers had demonstrated that they did not share its values, principles and ideological commitment.
“They were never truly of us,” the party said, wishing the defectors luck in what it described as their political misadventures.
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The NDC also announced plans to conduct fresh party congresses to elect new candidates to replace those who had defected in the affected constituencies.
It said the exercise would be carried out in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, with the aim of producing candidates it considers credible, competent and trustworthy.
The party further urged its members, supporters and Nigerians not to be discouraged by the alleged inducement of some of its candidates by the ruling party.
Describing the development as “the last kicks of a dying horse,” the NDC expressed confidence that the APC was facing imminent defeat.
It reiterated its commitment to what it called its historic mission of rescuing Nigeria from the grip of those in power and providing good governance, security and prosperity for citizens.
The party concluded by reaffirming its belief that a new Nigeria was possible, adding: “We can do it!”
