The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed allegations of irregularities and candidate imposition in its recently concluded presidential, governorship, National Assembly and State House of Assembly primaries, insisting that the exercise was transparent and driven by consultation and consensus.
This is contained in a statement signed by its National Secretary, Ikenna Enekweizu, in Abuja.
The statement describes reports questioning the credibility of the primaries as misleading and aimed at undermining its growing popularity.
It stresses that its approach to the primaries was guided by its constitution and internal guidelines, with emphasis placed on stakeholder consultations and consensus-building to minimise disputes.
According to the statement, aspirants were encouraged to engage with recognised caucus leaders, stakeholders and grassroots members in their respective states before participating in the primaries.
It cites the South-East as an example, noting that its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, joined the NDC with an established leadership structure comprising respected political leaders and elder statesmen serving as caucus heads across the region.
According to the statement, the caucus leaders include former NDDC Board Chairman Onyema Ugochukwu in Abia State, former Ebonyi State Governor Sam Egwu, former Enugu State Governor Okwesilieze Nwodo and former Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa, while Obi’s team coordinates activities in Anambra State.
It explains that the leaders were mandated to consult stakeholders, build consensus and make recommendations based on the political realities in their states.
The statement maintains that no aspirant was denied the opportunity to test their popularity through the democratic process where disagreements arose over recommendations made by caucus leaders or stakeholders.
It stresses that its National Secretariat did not at any stage select or impose candidates on any constituency or state.
The statement also highlights its affirmative action policy, which seeks to encourage greater participation of women in elective positions, while supporting serving lawmakers seeking re-election.
It acknowledges receiving complaints and reports of premature declarations of victory by some aspirants but said such matters had been referred to the party’s Appeal Panel and addressed by the leadership.
It emphasizes that the National Executive Committee had approved a reconciliation process aimed at uniting aspirants and members following the primaries.
The statement calls on caucus leaders, state chairmen and stakeholders to work towards strengthening unity and cohesion within the party ahead of future elections.
According to Enekweizu the NDC’s primary responsibility throughout the process was to welcome new members, assure aspirants of fairness and inclusiveness, and direct them to the appropriate party structures for participation in the primaries.
It notes that since receiving its certificate of registration on February 5, 2026, it has established structures across the country, held two NEC meetings and successfully conducted nationwide primaries, adding that it has emerged as one of the country’s largest political parties based on its representation in the National Assembly.
