Nigeria — The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of offering financial inducements and political appointments to some of its candidates to persuade them to defect to the ruling party.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, the NDC described the alleged defections as the actions of compromised candidates who lacked ideological commitment to the party.
The statement, signed by the NDC National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, Esq., alleged that the APC had resorted to offering money, political appointments and other material incentives to persuade some NDC candidates to abandon the party.
The NDC said the affected candidates had demonstrated that they did not share the values and principles of the party, adding that their departure would not derail its political objectives.
“For those who have fallen for this bait, it is clear that they lack the values, virtues, and ideological commitment associated with our great party,” the statement said.
The party further declared that it would immediately conduct fresh congresses to elect replacement candidates in the affected constituencies, citing the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026.
It also urged its members, supporters and Nigerians not to be discouraged by the defections, insisting that the development would not undermine its political mission.
Describing the alleged inducements as a sign of political desperation, the NDC said it remained committed to what it called its mission to rescue Nigeria from poor governance and deliver improved security, prosperity and accountable leadership.
“These are the last kicks of a dying horse that has seen the handwriting on the wall of its imminent defeat,” the party said.
The statement concluded with the party’s slogan: “A New Nigeria is Possible. We can do it!”
The APC had not responded to the allegations in the statement as presented.
