The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has suspended the recognition of all its foreign chapters, saying the decision was taken to comply with a court judgment that declared diaspora chapters of Nigerian political parties illegal.
The party announced the decision in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director Esq, on Sunday.
According to the statement, the NDC said it reviewed its relationship with its supporters and chapters abroad before deciding to withdraw all earlier recognitions granted to foreign chapters.
The party thanked Nigerians in the diaspora for their commitment and contributions over the years.
It said, “We are deeply appreciative of the immense support of various foreign chapters in the diaspora. We are grateful for their unwavering loyalty, guidance, and contributions to the party.”
The NDC explained that its decision was based on a subsisting judgment delivered by Justice Peter Kekemeke of the FCT High Court, Maitama, in the case of Prof. Ali Alao v. All Progressives Congress (APC) & Anor, Suit No: CV/187/2025.
Quoting the judgment, the party said, “No political party registered in Nigeria has the legal authority to establish, operate or supervise chapters outside the country’s territorial boundaries.”
The court also held that “diaspora chapters of Nigerian political parties were illegal, unconstitutional, and unknown to the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The NDC said it was respecting the judgment while its Legal Department studies the ruling and advises the party on the next step.
The party added that in countries where more than one NDC group exists, a harmonisation process has already started to bring them under one umbrella.
Despite withdrawing official recognition, the NDC assured its supporters abroad that it still values their role in the party.
It said Nigerians in the diaspora have shown tremendous interest in its candidates, especially its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and urged them to remain committed.
The statement said, “We encourage our supporters in the diaspora to continue to meet and interact, and we shall remain in touch with them through appropriate and legal channels.”
The NDC also used the opportunity to renew its call for national unity, urging Nigerians at home and abroad to work together to build a better country.
The party said Nigerians must join hands to rescue the country from its present challenges and insisted that, “A New Nigeria is POssible!”
The decision comes as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election continue to gather momentum, with many Nigerians in the diaspora showing growing interest in participating in campaigns and supporting political parties. However, the issue of officially recognised foreign chapters remains a legal matter following the FCT High Court judgment.
