A coalition of youth leaders and political groups from across Nigeria on Tuesday formally defected from the All Progressives Congress, APC, to the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, in a move they described as a stand for inclusivity, grassroots participation, and a renewed political direction.
The defection was announced during a solidarity visit to the National Leader of NDC, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, in Abuja. The group was led by former Special Adviser on Youth Matters at the APC national headquarters, Hon. Nasir Lawal.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Lawal said the decision to leave the APC followed deep dissatisfaction with the party’s internal structure and direction. He noted that many young members had become “internally displaced” within the party, citing increasing marginalisation of youth and women.
According to him, the APC had gradually shifted away from its founding ideals, with key party activities and campaign structures now dominated by a small circle of political elites, including serving and former governors, lawmakers, and influential insiders.
He further alleged that grassroots members – who had long contributed to the party’s growth – were increasingly sidelined, while opportunities and resources were concentrated among a select few. This, he said, had created widespread disillusionment among loyal supporters.
Lawal also criticised what he described as the party’s disconnect from pressing national challenges, particularly insecurity in parts of the country, accusing its leadership of focusing more on political calculations ahead of future elections than on governance.
He stated that the decision to join the NDC followed extensive consultations with grassroots stakeholders across States and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as support from several political figures within the APC.
“Politics must reflect the interests of the masses,” Lawal said, adding that the move to the NDC represented a collective commitment to a more inclusive and people-oriented political platform.
In his response, Senator Dickson welcomed the defectors and commended their decision, describing it as a demonstration of courage and patriotism.
“I am impressed with the quality and capacity of Nigerian youths. They have what it takes to offer leadership and change the narrative of governance in our country,” he said.
The former Bayelsa State governor assured the new members of full integration into the party, directing that they be connected with NDC state chairmen nationwide to enable their participation at all levels of the party structure.
He also reiterated the NDC’s commitment to inclusivity, highlighting existing policies that promote youth participation and affirmative action for women. According to him, members are free to contest for elective positions based on their qualifications.
Dickson emphasized that Nigeria’s greatest asset remains its human capital, expressing confidence in the ability of young people to drive meaningful change.
“The NDC is a party for all Nigerians,” he said, urging the new members to mobilise others to join the movement.
The NDC leader also revealed that he met with women political leaders from different parts of the country who had similarly aligned with the party. He confirmed that they had been integrated into state party structures in line with its inclusion policy.
“In line with our affirmative policy, women must play active roles in leadership. We will continue to promote greater inclusivity across all levels,” he added.
The event marks a significant development in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, particularly among youth constituencies, and signals potential shifts ahead of future electoral cycles.
