Edo Lawmakers, 2Baba’s Wife, Ex-Gombe Deputy Governor Defect to NDC Amid Growing Realignments
By Philip Ibe James
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) on Thursday expanded its political base as prominent politicians from Edo and Gombe States formally joined the party during a stakeholders’ reception held in Abuja.
Addressing party leaders, supporters, and new members at the gathering, Seriake Dickson called on members to remain committed to building a disciplined and ideology-driven political movement capable of shaping Nigeria’s future.
Among those received into the party were the Minority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, Charity Aiguobarueghian, who represents Ovia North East I Constituency, and Natasha Osawaru Idibia, member representing Egor Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly.
Others who formally joined the NDC include former Deputy Governor of Gombe State, John Yoriyo, and House of Representatives aspirant for Oredo Federal Constituency, Donald Eboigbe.
Speaking during the event, Dickson described the influx of new members as a reflection of the growing national acceptance of the NDC, noting that influential political stakeholders across the country were increasingly identifying with the platform.
The former Bayelsa governor explained that the party’s National Chairman and members of the National Working Committee were absent because of preparations for the party’s national convention scheduled for Saturday. He stressed that the NDC was founded on principles of internal democracy, discipline, and respect for constitutional processes.
According to him, the party remains open to Nigerians who believe in good governance, national unity, and inclusive development, while also prioritising youth and women's participation in the political process.
Dickson further warned against personal ambition and internal disorganisation, insisting that political parties must be strengthened institutionally if they are to remain relevant and effective over time.
The ceremony also featured the formal presentation of membership cards to the new entrants, with party leaders urging them to integrate fully into state structures and contribute to the expansion of the party ahead of future political contests.
In his remarks, former member of the House of Representatives, Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma, expressed confidence that the NDC would reshape Nigeria’s political landscape and provide an alternative platform capable of addressing the country’s economic and social challenges.
Agbonayinma said the movement was rapidly gaining support across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, describing the growing momentum as evidence that many Nigerians were searching for a new political direction.
Responding on behalf of the defectors from the Edo State House of Assembly, Aiguobarueghian said their decision to align with the NDC was driven by conviction and belief in the political future of the movement.
He disclosed that the lawmakers and their associates had earlier faced criticism and pressure while weighing political options amid uncertainties and internal crises affecting existing political parties.
According to the Edo minority leader, careful consultations and patience influenced their eventual decision, adding that his legal and political experience helped him assess developments within the nation’s political environment before making the move.
Aiguobarueghian also reflected on previous political encounters with senior leaders, revealing that he once received advice from a mentor who described Dickson as “the direction of Nigeria,” a statement he said deepened his admiration for the former governor’s leadership style and political vision.
Also speaking at the event, activist and political stakeholder Aisha Yesufu described the emerging political movement as a major turning point for the country.
Yesufu urged Nigerians to remain actively engaged in shaping the nation’s future, stressing that citizens collectively hold the responsibility of determining the direction of the country.
She commended the leadership of the movement for remaining vocal and resolute at a critical time in Nigeria’s political development, insisting that silence and hopelessness would not solve the nation’s challenges.
The activist expressed optimism that Nigeria could evolve into a society where opportunities are determined by merit rather than personal connections, adding that the ultimate goal is to build a nation where every citizen has equal access to success regardless of background.
