Veteran journalist and former presidential aide, Reuben Abati, has cautioned that the growing membership of the Nigerian Democratic Congress must not turn the party into what he described as an “IDP camp” for displaced politicians.
He made the remarks on Tuesday during the Morning Show programme on Arise Television, following the reported entry of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso into the party.
According to Abati, the development has significantly boosted the party’s profile, with its membership reportedly rising from about 9.4 million to over 10 million within a short period. He said the influx could position the NDC as a major opposition force ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, he warned that without ideological clarity and structure, the party risks becoming a dumping ground for “internally displaced politicians.”
He added that while Obi and Kwankwaso have brought momentum and visibility to the party led by Seriake Dickson, the NDC must go beyond slogans and clearly define its agenda for Nigerians.
Abati also stressed that the party must establish a concrete “contract” with citizens rather than relying on general promises such as rule of law, agriculture, and transportation.
He argued that the emergence of the NDC signals that opposition politics in Nigeria cannot easily be suppressed, noting that political actors often regroup under new platforms when existing ones are weakened.
He concluded that the 2027 election cycle is likely to be more competitive, giving voters wider choices in a dynamic political environment.
