The Nigeria Democratic Congress has been urged to take decisive action against individuals allegedly using the party’s platform to present themselves as activists and political representatives without proper authorisation.
The call comes amid growing tensions within the opposition party as it prepares for the 2027 general elections and seeks to establish a strong political structure capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress.
The party’s spokesperson reportedly expressed concern over the activities of some individuals who, according to him, operate primarily as social media content creators while presenting themselves publicly as activists associated with the NDC.
He argued that the development could damage the credibility of the party, particularly at a time when Nigerians are increasingly relying on social media for political information and campaign messaging.
According to the spokesperson, political activism should be distinguished from the production of online content designed primarily to generate attention, engagement or personal influence.
He called on the NDC leadership to properly identify individuals authorised to speak on behalf of the party and remove those allegedly using the party’s name without approval.
The controversy comes against the backdrop of increasing political activity within the NDC ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The party has attracted prominent opposition figures and activists as political realignments intensify across the country.
The need for disciplined communication has consequently become more important as the party seeks to project itself as a credible alternative to the ruling party.
The issue of individuals falsely presenting themselves as party officials is not entirely new within the NDC. In July, the party publicly disowned Okey Ezeala, accusing him of falsely presenting himself as its Deputy National Publicity Secretary. The NDC said he was neither elected nor appointed to the position and warned members of the public against conducting transactions with him in the party’s name.
That episode highlighted the potential risks associated with unauthorised representation, particularly in a political environment where party tickets, appointments and access to political leaders can carry significant financial and political implications.
The latest call for action therefore reflects broader concerns about maintaining organisational discipline as the NDC expands its membership and attempts to consolidate opposition forces ahead of the 2027 election.
The party’s communication strategy is particularly significant because social media has become one of the principal battlegrounds for Nigerian political campaigns. Political parties increasingly rely on influencers, content creators and online activists to communicate directly with voters, mobilise supporters and counter opposing narratives.
However, the distinction between official party communication and independent political commentary can become blurred when individuals use party logos, names or affiliations without formal authorisation.
This could create confusion among voters and potentially lead to misinformation about party policies, candidates and internal decisions.
The NDC has already experienced disputes involving individuals and groups claiming authority within or around the party. In another recent controversy, a dispute emerged over the use of the identity of the Nigeria Civil Societies’ Alliance for Democratic Change in publicity for an opposition summit. The matter resulted in demands for the removal of the organisation’s name and branding from materials associated with the event.
Against this background, calls for tighter control over party representation are likely to intensify as the 2027 elections draw closer.
For the NDC, the challenge will be to balance the energy and reach provided by social media activists and content creators with the need for clear organisational structures and disciplined messaging.
The party’s leadership must also distinguish between genuine independent activists who support its political objectives and individuals who may be seeking personal visibility or influence by associating themselves with the party.
The controversy also raises a broader question about the changing nature of political activism in Nigeria. Social media has lowered the barriers to political participation, allowing young Nigerians to build large audiences without necessarily belonging to traditional political organisations.
While this has strengthened public participation and created new avenues for political mobilisation, it has also made it easier for individuals to claim affiliations that may not formally exist.
As political parties prepare for the 2027 elections, the ability to verify spokespersons, activists and online representatives will therefore become increasingly important.
For the NDC, the immediate concern is protecting its identity and credibility while maintaining an effective digital presence.
With the opposition already facing the challenge of managing competing interests and personalities, party leaders are expected to place greater emphasis on internal discipline, authorised communication and accountability.
The latest call for the removal of alleged content creators posing as activists therefore goes beyond social media politics. It reflects the larger struggle by emerging political movements to build coherent organisations capable of converting online enthusiasm into disciplined electoral mobilisation.
