Alli Charges Youth to Take Charge as NDC Welcomes Defectors

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

A former Deputy National Chairman (South) of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Babatunde Alli, has called on Nigerian youths to take greater responsibility for their political future, declaring that the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) offers a platform for a new generation of leadership.

Alli made the call on Saturday in Abuja during a reception organised to welcome him and other high-profile entrants into the party, including the 2023 governorship candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Taraba State, Mohammed Sani Yahaya, and former member of the House of Representatives, Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma.

The event, attended by party leaders and supporters, comes at a time the NDC continues to expand its national reach, drawing politicians from parties grappling with internal crises and leadership disputes, as alignments begin to shift ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Addressing journalists, Alli clarified that his move to the NDC followed a formal resignation from the PRP, describing it as one of the most difficult decisions of his political career.

“I didn’t just decamp; I resigned after deep reflection,” he said, citing concerns over internal party dynamics, including what he described as lack of inclusivity and creeping regionalism.

According to him, the absence of fair processes and youth inclusion in party structures contributed to his decision to leave.

“Every political party in this country needs youth participation and inclusive processes. When those are missing, it becomes difficult for some of us to remain,” he said.

Alli used the occasion to deliver a pointed message to Nigerian youths, urging them to rise above political apathy and actively shape the country’s future.

“I need the youth of this nation to get up. The leaders are eating your tomorrow today. Wise up,” he declared, lamenting what he described as the marginalisation of younger Nigerians in leadership positions.

Drawing historical parallels, he noted that many of Nigeria’s early political leaders assumed responsibilities at a young age, questioning why today’s youth are often discouraged from participating in governance.

“How many 30-year-olds today are given the opportunity to lead? Yet those who tell them to wait are still contesting positions,” he said.

He added that the NDC provides an opportunity for youths to thrive politically, pledging to champion greater youth engagement within the party.

Also speaking, Yahaya said his political structure in Taraba State had fully aligned with the NDC, assuring that mobilisation efforts had already begun at the grassroots.

“From the polling unit to the state level, we are joining the NDC in total. What remains is to complete the structure,” he said.

Agbonayinma, in his remarks, pointed to the country’s current challenges as justification for his defection, expressing confidence in the NDC as a viable alternative.

“Nigeria is bleeding and searching for direction. I believe the NDC offers a platform for renewal and restoring hope,” he said.

The defectors were received by the party’s National Leader, Henry Seriake Dickson, and the National Chairman, Moses Cleopas, who both described the development as evidence of growing acceptance of the party’s vision.

Dickson urged the new entrants to leverage their experience and networks to strengthen the party’s grassroots presence, while Cleopas emphasised the need for discipline, unity, and respect for party structures.

Saturday’s development shows the NDC’s rising profile in Nigeria’s political landscape, as it positions itself as a rallying point for politicians seeking a more cohesive and forward-looking platform.