Senator Moses Cleopas, the national chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has said that the party is positioning itself to provide credible leadership and responsible opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the party’s inaugural national convention held on Saturday, Cleopas said the NDC was founded on the principles of justice, inclusion, accountability and national development.
Cleopas said the party was built on principles of justice, inclusion, accountability and national development, adding that its emergence marked a significant moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
“Today we gather not merely to hold a convention, but to write a new chapter in the democratic history of our dear nation, Nigeria,” he said.
He noted that the party’s registration in February followed years of delays and political struggles, describing it as “a victory for constitutional democracy and the Nigerian people.”
The chairman expressed concern over Nigeria’s current economic and security situation, pointing to rising inflation, unemployment and worsening insecurity across rural communities.
“Nigeria stands today at a very critical crossroads. Millions of Nigerians can no longer afford to provide for their families. Small businesses continue to collapse under severe economic pressures,” he said.
Cleopas added that insecurity had prevented many farmers from accessing their lands, worsening food production challenges across the country.
He stressed that opposition politics must go beyond criticism and focus on providing solutions to national problems.
“True opposition must provide ideas, direction, accountability and credible alternatives for national progress,” he said.
The NDC chairman also pledged that the party, if entrusted with leadership, would prioritise youth empowerment, women inclusion, institutional reforms and economic productivity.
“Our mission is clear: to promote governance founded on integrity, competence and inclusiveness,” he added.
Cleopas urged young Nigerians not to lose faith in democracy, encouraging active participation in the political process.
He also called for unity within the party, warning against internal divisions as preparations for 2027 intensify.
“Differences of opinion are natural in democratic organisations, but we must always rise above personal ambition for collective national progress,” he said.
Reaffirming the party’s vision, Cleopas stated that the NDC remained committed to restoring public trust in governance.
“Together, we shall build a stronger party. Together, we shall build a better democracy. Together, we shall build a better Nigeria,” he added.