Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, has appealed to members of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) to avoid taking internal party matters to court, warning that legal disputes could weaken the party at a critical stage of its growth ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi made this appeal in remarks captured in a video that circulated widely on Sunday. The statement came shortly after he and former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, were seen receiving membership cards of the NDC, a development that suggests their formal entry into the party.
Addressing party members, Obi stressed the need for unity, discipline, and focus, noting that many political parties in Nigeria have been damaged in the past by prolonged court cases and internal disagreements.
“Please let there be no litigation. Party members, please don’t go to court. We want to build a party, we are not lawyers,” Obi said.
He also called on the judiciary to handle party-related cases quickly so that political actors can concentrate on governance and nation-building.
“We are pleading with the judiciary. Please end cases in party so we can face the job of building a new Nigeria that is possible,” he added.
Obi’s message comes at a time when opposition politicians in Nigeria are making moves to come together and form a stronger platform that can challenge the ruling party in the next general elections. His appeal highlights concerns that internal crises could disrupt these efforts if not properly managed.
The former governor placed his comments within a broader vision of national development, arguing that political leaders must put the country first rather than pursue personal interests.
“We want to build a country where a child of nobody can be somebody without knowing anybody. That is what we want to do,” he said.
He also warned that actions capable of destabilising the party would not be tolerated, suggesting that discipline would be enforced to ensure the party remains focused on its goals.
The development follows a series of political meetings and consultations among key opposition figures. Earlier on Sunday, Obi and Kwankwaso held a closed-door meeting with leaders of the NDC at the Abuja residence of the party’s National Leader and former Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson.
The meeting took place in Guzape, a district in Abuja, and is believed to be part of ongoing efforts to bring together different opposition groups under one platform ahead of the 2027 elections.
Their arrival at the meeting venue attracted supporters linked to the Obi-Kwankwaso political movement. The supporters were seen chanting and expressing solidarity as both leaders entered the residence, reflecting growing interest in a possible alliance between the two politicians.
Obi’s latest move comes after his recent exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He had cited internal crises, frequent legal battles, and what he described as a toxic political environment as reasons for leaving the party.
According to him, these issues made it difficult to focus on the larger goal of building a credible political alternative for Nigerians.
He maintained that his decision to leave the ADC was not based on personal disagreements with party leaders, but rather on structural problems that hinder effective organisation and progress.
Such disputes have, in the past, affected candidate selection processes, campaign activities, and even election outcomes. As a result, calls for internal democracy and conflict resolution mechanisms have become more frequent among political stakeholders.
Obi’s warning to NDC members appears to be an attempt to avoid repeating these patterns as the party seeks to establish itself as a credible force.
Despite the ongoing political realignments, Obi has continued to highlight that his involvement in politics is driven by a desire to improve the country rather than personal ambition.
“I am not desperate to be President, Vice President or Senate President. I am desperate to see a Nigeria where people can live in dignity, without hunger, fear, or displacement,” he had said in a recent statement.
His comments reflect a broader message that has defined his political career, focusing on issues such as economic development, good governance, and social welfare.
Kwankwaso, who also has a strong political base, especially in northern Nigeria, has not publicly commented in detail on the latest development. However, his presence at the meeting and participation in the NDC activities suggest that he is also exploring new political options ahead of the next election cycle.
As the 2027 general elections draw closer, political activities across the country are expected to increase, with parties and politicians working to strengthen their positions.
For the NDC, the challenge will be to maintain unity and avoid internal conflicts that could derail its plans. Obi’s message to party members serves as an early warning that discipline and cooperation will be essential if the party hopes to succeed.