NDC Withdraws Recognition of Diaspora Chapters Following Court Judgment

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has withdrawn official recognition of its diaspora chapters following a court judgment reportedly restricting Nigerian political parties from establishing or operating branches outside the country.

The party said the decision followed a review of its engagement with overseas chapters and its consideration of a subsisting judgment of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama concerning the legality of diaspora structures operated by Nigerian political parties.

In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the NDC announced the withdrawal of all previous recognitions granted to its chapters outside Nigeria.

Despite the decision, the party expressed appreciation to Nigerians in the diaspora for their support, loyalty and contributions to its activities.

It explained that the move was guided by its commitment to transparency, accountability and due process, stressing that it would not disregard an existing court judgment.

The NDC cited the case of Prof. Ali Alao v. All Progressives Congress (APC) & Anor, Suit No. CV/187/2025, reportedly decided by Justice Peter Kekemeke of the FCT High Court in Maitama.

According to the party, the court ruled that Nigerian political parties lacked the legal authority to establish, operate or supervise chapters beyond the country’s territorial boundaries.

The NDC disclosed that it was reviewing the judgment and had referred the matter to its Legal Department for further advice and guidance.

It also revealed that a harmonisation process had commenced in jurisdictions where multiple groups were operating under the party’s name. The initiative, it said, was intended to bring the groups under a unified structure.

Although formal recognition of its diaspora chapters has been withdrawn, the party urged its supporters abroad to remain interested in its activities and candidates, particularly its presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

The NDC encouraged Nigerians living outside the country to continue meeting and interacting, assuring them that communication would be maintained through appropriate and lawful channels.

Acknowledging the growing interest of Nigerians abroad in its political activities, the party thanked its supporters for their continued commitment and urged them to remain aligned with its vision.

The party also called on its members and supporters to work together towards building what it described as a better Nigeria. It criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the administration of allowing the country to drift into uncertainty and hopelessness.