SDP FCT Chairmanship Candidate, MC Tagwaye, Supporters Defect to NDC

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has strengthened its political base in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) following the defection of popular youth politician, Obinna Simon, known as MC Tagwaye, alongside his supporters, into the party.

Tagwaye, a former member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate in the recent Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) chairmanship election, was formally received at the party secretariat by the National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, the National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas, members of the National Working Committee, and other senior officials.

Presenting him to the leadership, the FCT Chairman of the party, Hon. Haruna Pai, described Tagwaye as a well-known political figure in the territory and beyond, expressing confidence that he would enjoy strong support within the party structure.

Welcoming the defectors, the National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas, said the party had engaged Tagwaye in a series of consultations before his formal decision to join the NDC.

“After holding several meetings with him and discussing extensively, we found him to be a good man and fit to join the NDC,” Cleopas said. “The FCT Chairman had presented him, and today we are formally receiving and decorating him as a member of our party.”

Following the reception, Tagwaye was decorated with the party’s insignia and issued a membership card amid cheers from supporters.

The National Leader of the NDC, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, welcomed the new entrant and described the party as a stable political platform committed to national renewal.

He said the NDC had remained free from internal crises and factional disputes, adding that growing interest in the party reflected increasing public trust.

Dickson also urged Nigerians to take advantage of the party’s ongoing nationwide membership drive, noting that the NDC is positioning itself as a credible alternative for governance.

In his remarks, Tagwaye said his decision to join the NDC was driven by a desire to contribute to national development rather than personal ambition.

“I joined the NDC for the betterment of Nigerians,” he said. “After the elections and the challenges in my former political engagements, I reflected deeply with my supporters and we decided to align with a platform that reflects our values.”

He added that his political movement was rooted in addressing issues affecting governance and public welfare.

“This is about history and posterity. At a time when the country is facing challenges of insecurity, mismanagement and other social issues, we believe in being part of the solution,” he said.

Tagwaye further stated that his support base extends beyond the FCT, noting that his network would be mobilised in support of the party’s political agenda nationwide.

He assured the leadership of his commitment to the party’s objectives, saying he was ready to undertake any assignment given to him.

“I am fully committed to the NDC. Whatever responsibility I am given, I will carry it out diligently,” he added.

He also expressed appreciation to Barrister Amanda Pam for her support and guidance throughout his political journey.

The defection is seen as a boost for the NDC’s growing presence in the FCT, particularly among youth-focused political actors and grassroots mobilisers ahead of future elections.