During the Nigerian Third Republic, it was seen as a moderate party attractive to young radical intellectuals and socialists.

After 13 prospective parties were banned by the administration of Ibrahim Babangida in 1989, some of the associations decided to re-align.

Despite the dominance of Northern Nigerians, the party's strength lay in the Igbo people in the states of Imo and Anambra.

The party was primarily financed by the Nigerian government and wealthy individuals such as Shehu Musa Yar'Adua, Francis Nzeribe and M.K.O.

[3] Former members include Atiku Abubakar, Jerry Gana, Abubakar Rimi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Shehu Yar'Adua, Abdullahi Aliyu Sumaila, Dapo Sarumi, Sule Lamido, Magaji Abdullahi, Tony Anenih, Lamidi Adedibu, Albert Legogie, Iyorchia Ayu, Fidelis Tapgun, Boss Mustapha, Bola Tinubu, Asiwaju Kayode Blessing and Mohammed Arzika.