NDC Withdraws Recognition Of All Diaspora Chapters

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has withdrawn recognition from all its diaspora chapters in compliance with a court judgment restricting Nigerian political parties from establishing and supervising branches outside the country.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, announced the decision in a statement on Sunday, explaining that the move followed a ruling by Justice Peter Kekemeke of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama.

According to the statement, the judgment in the case of Prof. Ali Alao v. All Progressives Congress (APC) & Anor, Suit No. CV/187/2025, held that political parties registered in Nigeria lack the legal authority to establish, operate or supervise chapters beyond the country’s territorial boundaries.

The court reportedly further ruled that diaspora chapters of Nigerian political parties were illegal and unconstitutional.

In response, the NDC said it was withdrawing all previous recognition granted to its foreign-based chapters in deference to the court’s decision. The party also disclosed that it had referred the judgment to its legal department for further review and advice on the appropriate steps to take.

The party acknowledged the contributions and loyalty of its diaspora supporters, particularly their support for its candidates, including its presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

It urged Nigerians living abroad to sustain their interest in the party and continue engaging with one another through lawful channels while the leadership considers the legal implications of the ruling.

The statement also revealed that the party had initiated a harmonisation process in locations where multiple groups claim to represent the NDC, with the aim of bringing them under a unified structure.

The NDC reiterated its commitment to due process, accountability and transparency, adding that it would maintain contact with diaspora supporters through appropriate legal channels.

The development comes as political parties and their supporters prepare for the 2027 general elections, with the NDC expressing confidence that Nigerians at home and abroad would continue contributing to its political activities within the confines of the law.