Coalition sites legal breach over lawyer’s alleged dual role in APM, NDC

A civil society coalition under the aegis of Nigeria Democratic Rights Advocacy has raised concerns over an alleged violation of Nigeria’s electoral laws, warning against what it described as a potential case of dual political party membership.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, the group said it uncovered discrepancies in official party records indicating that Reuben Egwuaba is listed as National Legal Adviser in both the Allied Peoples Movement and the Nigeria Democratic Congress—with one of the listings reportedly backed “by court order.”

The statement, signed by the group’s General Secretary, Julius Aondowase, described the situation as more than a clerical error, warning that it raises serious legal and constitutional concerns.

Citing provisions of the amended Electoral Act, the coalition stressed that dual party membership is expressly prohibited under Nigerian law, with penalties including fines of up to ₦10 million or a prison term of up to two years.

According to the group, the position of National Legal Adviser is a critical office within a party’s National Executive Committee and requires exclusive allegiance, making any overlap between two parties both politically inappropriate and legally questionable.

“This situation demands urgent clarification,” the group said, noting that if the records are accurate, it could amount to a clear breach of the law. It added that if the listings are erroneous, the public deserves a prompt correction and explanation.

The coalition called on relevant authorities, particularly the Independent National Electoral Commission, to investigate the matter and take necessary action in line with the law, emphasising that Nigeria’s democracy must be governed by rules rather than convenience.

However, reacting to the development, an official of INEC, Wilfred Ifogah, said preliminary findings suggest that Egwuaba has already resigned from the APM and is currently a member of the NDC.

He explained that the discrepancy may have resulted from a delay in official communication between the party and the electoral commission, assuring that the necessary updates would be made.

“It is likely that the APM has not formally notified the commission. The needful will be done to update the portal,” he said.

The development highlights ongoing concerns around party administration and compliance with electoral regulations, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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