Abati warns NDC against losing direction amid surge in membership

By Musa Baba Adamu

Veteran journalist and former presidential aide, Reuben Abati, has cautioned the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) against becoming a refuge for defecting politicians as its membership continues to swell.
Speaking on The Morning Show on Arise Television, monitored in Abuja, Abati said the party’s rapid growth, from about 9.4 million to over 10 million members within a short period, signals rising political relevance but also poses structural risks.
He noted that the recent entry of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso has significantly boosted the party’s profile, positioning it as a potential major opposition force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Abati, however, warned that the influx of new members must be carefully managed to avoid turning the party into what he described as an “IDP camp” for politicians seeking new platforms.
According to him, the party must go beyond broad statements of intent and articulate a clear ideological direction that resonates with Nigerians.
He stressed the need for the NDC to establish a strong engagement with citizens and develop a concrete policy framework, rather than relying on generalised promises common across political parties.
The media analyst added that the emergence of the NDC reflects the resilience of opposition politics in Nigeria, noting that attempts to weaken opposition platforms often lead to the formation of new alliances.
He further observed that the evolving political landscape could make the 2027 elections more competitive, as new alignments continue to reshape the balance of power.