The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced plans to conduct fresh party congresses in affected constituencies following the resignation of its Bauchi State governorship candidate, Ibrahim Kashim, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party said it would activate the relevant provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 to fill vacancies created by candidates who leave its platform.
Kashim, a former Secretary to the Bauchi State Government, announced his resignation in a letter dated October 16, 2026, citing personal choice after careful consideration.
His departure was made public on Tuesday, October 20, prompting the party to address the implications for its preparations for the forthcoming elections.
In a statement issued in Abuja, NDC National Publicity Secretary Osa Director said the party would organise fresh congresses in constituencies affected by the departures to select replacement candidates.
The party also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to weaken opposition parties through alleged inducements to their candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, the APC’s alleged involvement in the defections remains an accusation by the NDC.
Reports indicate that other NDC candidates in Bauchi State, including those contesting seats in the National Assembly and State House of Assembly, could also leave the party. The extent of any further departures has not been independently established.
Kashim, meanwhile, maintained that his resignation would not affect his commitment to political reform and socio-economic development in Bauchi State.
He expressed his continued interest in promoting better leadership, economic opportunities, improved security and a better future for residents of the state.
The former government official has yet to announce which political party he intends to join, despite speculation about a possible move to the APC.
Kashim previously served under Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed as Secretary to the State Government before leaving the position in December 2024.
The latest development comes as political parties begin strengthening their structures and selecting candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
For the NDC, the planned congresses are intended to address vacancies arising from the departures and maintain its readiness for the electoral contest.
The party’s next steps, alongside any further defections in Bauchi State, are likely to shape its preparations for the forthcoming polls.
