The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has disclosed plans to organise new party congresses in areas where vacancies emerge following the withdrawal or defection of its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The decision comes after Ibrahim Kashim, the party’s governorship flagbearer in Bauchi State and a former Secretary to the State Government, announced his resignation from the NDC. His exit has generated political discussions, with reports suggesting that he could be preparing to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
NDC Moves to Address Emerging Vacancies
Reacting to the development, the opposition party said it would rely on the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, to conduct fresh congresses in affected constituencies and select replacements where necessary.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, the NDC’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, explained that the party was prepared to take the necessary steps to address vacancies resulting from candidates’ departures.
Although Director did not specifically mention Kashim in the announcement, sources familiar with the matter told PUNCH Online that the former Bauchi State government official was the individual at the centre of the development.
The sources also suggested that other NDC candidates in Bauchi State might consider leaving the party, raising concerns about the potential consequences for its political structure in the state.
The party, however, called on its members to resist alleged financial incentives and other forms of inducement from the APC. It accused the ruling party of seeking to undermine opposition groups before the 2027 elections and urged its supporters to remain loyal to the NDC.
Kashim Explains His Decision
In his resignation announcement, Kashim stated that his decision followed careful reflection. He maintained that leaving the NDC would not affect his commitment to political transformation and economic advancement in Bauchi State.
The former governorship candidate also indicated that he intended to remain active in politics, although he did not identify the platform through which he would pursue his future ambitions.
Kashim previously served as Secretary to the Bauchi State Government under Governor Bala Mohammed. He assumed the position in June 2021 before stepping down in December 2024.
His resignation from the government position came during a period of political friction involving Governor Mohammed and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Political Realignments Intensify Ahead of 2027
Kashim’s departure comes amid growing political manoeuvring across Nigeria as political parties strengthen their structures and prepare for the next general elections.
Recent developments have demonstrated that party membership and political loyalties remain fluid, with politicians moving between platforms in pursuit of different political interests.
Previous reports indicated that 21 local government chairmen and 226 councillors had left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the APC, highlighting the ruling party’s growing efforts to attract political figures from rival organisations.
Meanwhile, the NDC has also recorded new entrants. In October 2026, the party received a former APC leader from Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State at an event hosted by its vice-presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, at his residence in Kano.
These developments reflect the continuing struggle among political parties to consolidate their support bases ahead of the 2027 elections.
For the NDC, conducting fresh congresses could become necessary if additional candidates withdraw or defect. The party’s ability to manage the situation and retain its members may prove important to its preparations for the forthcoming electoral contest.
