The Nigeria Democratic Congress has vowed to conduct fresh congresses to replace candidates who defect from the party, following the resignation of its Bauchi State governorship candidate, Ibrahim Kashim.
The NDC’s reaction came hours after Kashim, a former Secretary to the Bauchi State Government, announced his resignation from the party, fuelling speculation that he might join the APC.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, the National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said it would replace defectors in affected constituencies through fresh congresses, citing the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026.
“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. They were never truly of us. To them, we say good riddance to bad rubbish, and we wish them luck in their political misadventures,” the statement read.
Although the Director did not identify the candidates allegedly involved, a source close to the party told PUNCH Online that Kashim was the principal figure in the development, adding that other Bauchi NDC candidates might also leave.
He said, “This move is against Barrister Ibrahim Kashim, our governorship candidate in Bauchi State. We have it on record that other NDC candidates in the House of Representatives and State Assembly are planning to follow him on the defection train.”
In announcing his resignation, Kashim said his decision followed careful reflection.
He, however, maintained that leaving the party would not diminish his commitment to political reform and socio-economic advancement in Bauchi State.
“Our conviction remains that our dear state deserves purposeful leadership, a stronger economy, greater opportunities for our youths and women, improved security, and a future in which every citizen can live with dignity and hope,” Kashim stated.
He also assured his followers that his political movement remained active.
Kashim has yet to announce his next political platform, although speculation is mounting that he may defect to the APC.
He served as Secretary to the Bauchi State Government under Governor Bala Mohammed, who appointed him in June 2021.
The politician resigned in December 2024 amid the political rift between Mohammed and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Reassuring its members and supporters, the NDC urged them not to be discouraged by the alleged inducements, accusing the APC of attempting to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“These are the last kicks of a dying horse that has seen the handwriting on the wall of its imminent defeat,” the party said.
Director added, “The NDC remains resolutely committed to its historic mission of rescuing our country from the vice grip of the buccaneers in power and giving Nigerians the good governance, security, and prosperity they so richly desire. A new Nigeria is possible. We can do it!”