Bauchi NDC governorship candidate quits as party plans new congresses

The Nigeria Democratic Congress is set to hold new congresses to replace candidates who leave the party. This follows the resignation of its governorship candidate in Bauchi State, Ibrahim Kashim.

The NDC reacted shortly after Kashim, a former Secretary to the Bauchi State Government, announced he was stepping down from the party. This has led to rumors that he might join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday, the National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said the party would conduct fresh congresses in constituencies affected by defections. He referenced the Electoral Act, 2026, to support this move.

“For those who have fallen for this bait, it is clear that they lack the values, virtues, and ideological commitment associated with our great party. They were never truly of us. To them, we say good riddance to bad rubbish, and we wish them luck in their political misadventures,” the statement read.

The Director did not name the candidates involved in the defection, but a source close to the party told PUNCH Online that Kashim was the main figure in this situation. The source added that other NDC candidates in Bauchi might also leave.

He said, “This move is against Barrister Ibrahim Kashim, our governorship candidate in Bauchi State. We have it on record that other NDC candidates in the House of Representatives and State Assembly are planning to follow him on the defection train.”

Kashim explained that his resignation came after careful thought. He stated that leaving the party would not lessen his commitment to political reform and socio-economic growth in Bauchi State.

“Our conviction remains that our dear state deserves purposeful leadership, a stronger economy, greater opportunities for our youths and women, improved security, and a future in which every citizen can live with dignity and hope,” Kashim stated. He also assured his supporters that his political movement is still active.

Kashim has not yet revealed his next political party, but there are growing speculations that he may join the APC. He previously served as Secretary to the Bauchi State Government under Governor Bala Mohammed, who appointed him in June 2021.

Kashim resigned in December 2024 due to a political rift between Mohammed and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The NDC encouraged its members and supporters not to be discouraged by the alleged offers from other parties. They accused the APC of trying to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“These are the last kicks of a dying horse that has seen the handwriting on the wall of its imminent defeat,” the party said. Director added, “The NDC remains resolutely committed to its historic mission of rescuing our country from the vice grip of the buccaneers in power and giving Nigerians the good governance, security, and prosperity they so richly desire. A new Nigeria is possible. We can do it!”