Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has withdrawn recognition of its diaspora chapters in deference to a court judgment which reportedly barred Nigerian political parties from establishing or operating chapters outside the country.

The party said the decision followed a review of its relationship with foreign chapters and its awareness of a subsisting judgment of the FCT High Court in Maitama concerning the legality of diaspora chapters of Nigerian political parties.

In a statement issued yesterday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the NDC said all previous recognitions granted to its foreign chapters had been withdrawn.

The party, however, expressed appreciation to Nigerians in the diaspora for their support, loyalty and contributions to its activities.

It said the decision was guided by its commitment to accountability, transparency and due process, adding that it would not disregard a subsisting court judgment.

The NDC cited the case of Prof. Ali Alao v. All Progressives Congress (APC) & Anor, Suit No. CV/187/2025, reportedly decided by Justice Peter Kekemeke of the FCT High Court, Maitama.

According to the party, the court held that Nigerian political parties lacked the legal authority to establish, operate or supervise chapters outside the country’s territorial boundaries.

The party said it was studying the judgment and had referred the matter to its Legal Department for further advice and guidance.

It also disclosed that it had initiated a harmonisation process in jurisdictions where multiple groups were operating under the party’s name, with a view to bringing them under a common structure.

Despite withdrawing formal recognition of the diaspora chapters, the NDC urged its supporters abroad to sustain their interest in the party and its candidates, particularly its presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

The party encouraged Nigerians in the diaspora to continue meeting and interacting, assuring them that it would maintain contact through appropriate and lawful channels.

Acknowledging the growing interest of Nigerians abroad in its political activities, the NDC expressed gratitude for their support and urged them to remain committed to its vision.

The party also called on its supporters to work collectively towards building what it described as a better Nigeria, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of presiding over a country in a state of drift and hopelessness.