NDC Introduces Candidate Indemnity Form, Reaffirms Commitment to Party Discipline
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has unveiled a mandatory indemnity form for candidates seeking elective office on its platform as part of efforts to strengthen party discipline, accountability, and institutional stability.
The announcement was made during a media briefing held in Abuja on Tuesday and presided over by the party's National Chairman, Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe.
Addressing journalists, Zuwoghe said the initiative reflects the party's determination to build a strong political institution anchored on internal democracy, collective responsibility, and respect for party structures.
He explained that the NDC was established to offer Nigerians an alternative political platform driven by ideas and principles rather than individual ambitions. According to him, the party's formation followed extensive consultations and studies of successful political organisations across different democracies.
"The vision of the NDC goes beyond winning elections. Our objective is to build a political institution that remains relevant, effective, and sustainable for generations," he said.
The chairman stressed that the party was founded to strengthen democratic culture and encourage issue-based politics, adding that its structures were deliberately designed to promote continuity and stability.
During the briefing, the party's National Legal Adviser, Barrister Reuben Egwuaba, provided details on the newly introduced indemnity form, describing it as a commitment mechanism aimed at ensuring that candidates remain faithful to the party's constitution, values, and decisions.
Egwuaba noted that the policy is consistent with existing legal provisions governing political parties and elections in Nigeria.
He explained that the indemnity form serves as both a legal undertaking and a moral obligation for candidates to uphold the interests of the party and respect its internal processes.
According to him, the initiative aligns with the NDC's broader goal of reinforcing party supremacy and ensuring that elected officials remain accountable to the platform that sponsored their emergence.
Party officials also referenced resolutions adopted by the National Executive Committee, which emphasize that public office holders elected on the NDC platform are expected to conduct their affairs in line with the party's constitution and policy direction.
The leadership maintained that the party's long-term ambition is to create a durable political organisation capable of enduring beyond election cycles and leadership transitions.
The briefing concluded with assurances that the NDC would continue to strengthen its internal structures and promote democratic values as it expands its presence across the country.
Benita Ibrahim
