The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has suspended the recognition of all its diaspora chapters in compliance with a court judgment declaring such structures illegal under Nigerian law.
The party announced the decision in a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director Esq. It said the move followed a review of its relationship with supporters and chapters abroad in line with the judgment of the FCT High Court in Maitama.
According to the party, Justice Peter Kekemeke ruled in the case of Prof. Ali Alao v. All Progressives Congress (APC) & Anor that no registered political party 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 are unconstitutional and unknown to the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The NDC said it was complying with the judgment while its Legal Department studies the ruling and advises the party on the appropriate next steps.
It, however, expressed gratitude to Nigerians in the diaspora for their unwavering loyalty, guidance and contributions to the growth of the party over the years.
The party also disclosed that efforts were already underway to harmonise multiple NDC support groups in some countries under a single platform.
It assured its supporters abroad that the withdrawal of official recognition would not affect their relationship with the party and encouraged them to continue engaging through lawful channels.
The NDC further urged Nigerians at home and abroad to remain united in supporting its vision for national renewal, insisting that “A New Nigeria is POssible!”
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