NDC Faces Fresh Crisis as Kano Nomination Dispute Deepens, Defection Threat Emerges

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) is battling a fresh internal crisis over the allocation of nomination slots in Kano State, with growing concerns that the dispute could trigger a wave of defections ahead of the next general elections.

The crisis, which centres on the party’s vice presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has reportedly pitted him against some founding members and the Kano State executive over the control of elective nominations.

Party sources alleged that the disagreement stems from Kwankwaso’s insistence on determining candidates for elective offices in Kano, a move they claim has sidelined long-standing party stakeholders.

According to the sources, the NDC National Working Committee (NWC) has been attempting to broker a compromise after concerns were raised over the distribution of nomination slots.

A party chieftain, who spoke on condition of anonymity, alleged that Kwankwaso had already secured nominations for key positions, including the governorship ticket, several National Assembly seats and other strategic offices, but was also insisting on controlling nominations for all 44 State Assembly constituencies.

The source further claimed that appeals by party leaders, including the North-West National Vice Chairman, Mohammed Sabo Barkin Zuwo, for concessions were rejected.

The development, the source said, has fuelled resentment among party leaders and supporters in Kano, with some reportedly threatening to dump the party.

The source also alleged that former Kano State Governor Kabiru Gaya had reconsidered plans to join the NDC because of the internal disagreements.

Adding another dimension to the crisis, party insiders claimed Kwankwaso has opened discussions with the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), alleging that some of his loyalists had obtained nomination forms under the party.

The sources further claimed efforts were being made to persuade the NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to consider a political alliance with the PRP, although they said Obi had not embraced the proposal.

According to the insiders, Kwankwaso’s immediate political priority is retaining influence in Kano State rather than the outcome of the presidential election.

Meanwhile, party sources said NDC National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, has been engaging aggrieved members in Kano in a bid to prevent an imminent mass resignation.

They disclosed that some members had planned to announce their resignation at a press conference before intervention by the party leadership.

Reacting to the development, the National Publicity Secretary of the NDC, Comrade Osa Director, confirmed that there was an impasse within the Kano chapter but expressed confidence that the issues would be resolved.

He said consultations were ongoing among relevant stakeholders and expressed optimism that an agreement would be reached before the submission of the party’s final list of candidates.

Neither Kwankwaso nor his representatives had publicly responded to the allegations at the time of filing this report.