APC Youth Groups Defect to NDC, Cites Marginalization and High Cost of Political Participation

The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has received members of a youth group who defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the NDC, describing their decision as a welcome development and a reflection of growing confidence in the party’s vision.

Dickson made the remarks while addressing the group in Abuja.

He reaffirmed the NDC’s commitment to inclusiveness, political participation, and the provision of a credible platform for Nigerians across all backgrounds.

He urged citizens who feel dissatisfied or excluded within their current political arrangements to consider joining the NDC, which he described as a movement built on value, justice and purpose.

Speaking on behalf of the group, its spokesperson, Hon. Nasiru Lawal, a former Special Adviser on Youth Matters at the APC headquarters, said the decision to leave the APC was driven by feelings of marginalization within the party’s structure.

He also said the group believes the cost of party nomination forms for elective positions was no longer affordable for young people, making meaningful political participation difficult for many youths.

Lawal further described their experience in the APC as one in which members felt like “internally displaced persons,” adding that the move to join NDC was necessary in search of a more inclusive and accessible political platform.

He assured that the group would support grassroots mobilisation efforts and contribute to strengthening the NDC across communities nationwide.

Dickson, in response, welcomed the group and reiterated that the NDC remains open to all Nigerians committed to national development and inclusive governance.

By Benita Ibrahim