Amanze Chinonye
A fresh controversy over alleged dual party affiliation has emerged, with a civil society group accusing a senior political figure of violating Nigeria’s Electoral Act, even as the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) moves to counter the claims with documentary evidence.
Nigeria Democratic Rights Advocacy (NDRA), in a statement released on Sunday, flagged what it described as conflicting records linking Barrister Reuben Egwuaba to top positions in both the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and the NDC.
According to the group, the lawyer is listed as National Legal Adviser in both parties, raising concerns about possible dual membership.
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The group’s General Secretary, Julius Aondowase, said the development represents a serious legal issue rather than a mere administrative lapse.
“What we are seeing is not a simple documentation error but a contradiction with significant legal consequences,” he stated.
NDRA referenced Section 77 of the Electoral Act, which prohibits individuals from belonging to more than one political party at the same time. It noted that violations could attract penalties ranging from fines of up to ₦10 million to a two-year prison term, or both.
The group further underscored the sensitivity of the office in question, noting that the role of National Legal Adviser is a core position within a party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and presupposes exclusive membership.
“To hold such an office in two separate political parties concurrently raises a presumption of dual allegiance and potential criminal liability,” the statement added.
NDRA called for urgent clarification from the parties involved and urged regulatory bodies to intervene, stressing that the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic system depends on strict adherence to the law.
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NDC Presents Counter-Claim
Amid the growing scrutiny, the NDC has pushed back against the allegations, releasing documents it says clarify Egwuaba’s status and timeline of political affiliation.
Central to its response are two letters indicating that Egwuaba formally disengaged from the APM in December 2025.
In a letter dated December 4, 2025, and addressed to the APM National Chairman, Egwuaba announced his resignation as National Legal Adviser, stating that it would take effect from December 10, 2025. He attributed the decision to evolving professional commitments and personal considerations, while expressing appreciation for the opportunity to serve the party.
A separate letter dated December 5, 2025, and addressed to his ward chairman in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State, conveyed his resignation from the party’s membership, effective immediately.
In both correspondences, Egwuaba thanked the party leadership and members for their support during his tenure, which began in 2019.
The NDC’s disclosure suggests that the alleged overlap in roles may stem from outdated records or administrative delays in updating party documentation, rather than an ongoing breach of the law.
Awaiting Official Clarifications
Despite the NDC’s defence, questions remain unresolved. The Allied Peoples Movement has yet to publicly respond to the claims, and there has been no immediate statement from electoral authorities regarding the status of the records in question.
The episode has renewed focus on internal party administration, record accuracy, and regulatory enforcement, with observers noting that discrepancies of this nature could undermine public confidence if not promptly addressed.
As the situation develops, stakeholders are calling for transparency and verification to determine whether the issue reflects a procedural lapse or a substantive legal infraction under Nigeria’s electoral framework.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
