NDC Invites ADC Leaders to Join Party, Vows to Reject Politicians Associated With Internal Crises
By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar
The Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Katsina State and the party’s governorship candidate, Alhaji Aliyu Ilu Barde, has called on prominent politicians and supporters from other political parties, particularly the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to join the NDC, describing the party as a platform built on justice, unity and peaceful coexistence.
Barde made the appeal during a press conference held at the NDC state headquarters in Katsina on Monday, where he explained the circumstances that led him and several of his supporters to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) and establish the NDC.
According to him, the decision to quit the APC was driven by what he described as persistent injustice and preferential treatment within the party, where individuals who joined later were allegedly favoured over long-serving members who contributed to building the party.
“We were among those who worked tirelessly to strengthen the APC and bring it to its current position, but later found ourselves sidelined while former opponents of the party were given priority,” Barde said.
The NDC leader disclosed that even before the political realignments that gave rise to the ADC coalition, efforts had been made to persuade him to join the party. However, he said he declined due to longstanding internal disputes and leadership challenges.
He argued that leadership crises and legal battles had been recurring features of the party since 2019, making it an unattractive political platform in his view.
Barde further revealed that the NDC had attempted to attract several leading ADC figures in Katsina, including Dr. Mustapha Inuwa, Senator Sadiq Yar’Adua, Ahmad Babba Kaita and Lawal Daura, but said they did not respond positively to the party’s overtures.
“We tried to draw their attention to the challenges associated with the political path they were taking, but our advice was ignored. Today, many of the concerns we raised are beginning to manifest,” he stated.
Despite this, Barde said the NDC remains open to welcoming individuals committed to public service and seeking solutions to the socio-economic and political challenges facing Katsina State and Nigeria.
He, however, stressed that membership would not be granted indiscriminately.
“We are not prepared to admit everyone. Some individuals carry with them the same internal conflicts that have destabilised other parties. We carefully assess integrity, credibility and trustworthiness before accepting anyone into our fold,” he said.
Speaking on the future of Northern Nigeria’s political leadership, Barde urged politicians and voters to prioritise competence, justice and commitment to public welfare over ethnic considerations.
He commended Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing him as one of the northern political figures who has consistently demonstrated commitment to advancing the interests of the region. He also cautioned political actors against exploiting ethnic sentiments for political gain.
“We must be fair to ourselves and avoid allowing personal interests to drive ethnic politics. What the people need is justice and responsible leadership,” he said.
Barde also issued a warning to individuals allegedly claiming to be candidates for elective positions under the NDC without the party’s official approval, saying such actions could attract legal consequences.
“The NDC operates within established rules and procedures. We already know those who have formally sought nominations and the offices they intend to contest. We therefore advise those spreading false claims to desist immediately or face legal action,” he added.
