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By Torkwase Nyiekaa, Abuja
The Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) has dismissed allegations by former presidential aspirant, Abisayo Modupe, that she was unfairly excluded from the party’s presidential screening process, insisting that its internal procedures were transparent, credible, and in line with the party’s constitution and guidelines.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party, Judith Aguenu, the DLA described Modupe’s claims as “false and misleading,” maintaining that her disqualification was based solely on the outcome of the screening exercise conducted by the appropriate organs of the party.
According to the party, Modupe was not the only aspirant seeking the DLA presidential ticket, noting that three other aspirants also purchased nomination forms, participated in the screening process, and were assessed under the same criteria.
“The attention of the National Leadership of the Democratic Leadership Alliance has been drawn to allegations by former presidential aspirant, Abisayo Modupe, claiming that she was wrongfully excluded from the party’s presidential screening process,” the statement read.
“The party wishes to state categorically that these allegations are false and misleading.
“Contrary to her claims, Abisayo Modupe was not the only aspirant seeking the party’s presidential ticket. Three other aspirants duly purchased nomination forms, participated in the screening exercise, and were assessed in accordance with the constitution and guidelines of the party. Those who met the prescribed requirements were cleared to proceed.”
The party further stated that Modupe participated fully in the screening exercise but failed to secure clearance based on the assessment carried out by the relevant party organs.
“Abisayo Modupe also participated in the screening process but was not cleared by the appropriate organs of the party based on the outcome of the screening exercise,” Aguenu said.
The DLA expressed concern that rather than utilizing the party’s internal dispute resolution mechanisms to challenge her disqualification, the former aspirant chose to air her grievances on social media.
“It is noteworthy that no other aspirant at any level of the party has raised complaints regarding the transparency or fairness of the nomination and screening exercises. Rather than utilizing available internal mechanisms to challenge her disqualification, Abisayo Modupe has chosen to make allegations against the party through social media,” the statement added.
Defending the integrity of its internal democratic processes, the party stressed that it would not allow individual ambitions or personal disappointments to undermine its institutional credibility.
“The Democratic Leadership Alliance is an institution built on discipline, due process, accountability, and respect for constituted authority. We will not allow personal disappointment or individual ambition to undermine the integrity of our internal democratic processes,” Aguenu stated.
The party also used the opportunity to caution political organizations against admitting individuals who may not share their values or respect internal procedures.
“This unfortunate development should serve as a lesson to political parties on the need for thorough screening and continuous vigilance against individuals who seek to use political platforms for personal objectives while showing little regard for party discipline, institutional processes, and collective interests,” the statement noted.
According to the DLA, many of the crises witnessed within political parties are often fueled by individuals who prioritize personal ambition over collective goals and democratic principles.
The party further emphasized that political leadership requires more than the desire to secure a party ticket or occupy public office.
“Political leadership is not merely about occupying an office or obtaining a party ticket. It requires character, maturity, competence, responsibility, and a demonstrated commitment to service.
“Those who aspire to the highest offices in the land must also demonstrate respect for due process and the institutions through which leadership mandates are acquired,” the statement said.
The DLA also rejected suggestions that Modupe’s disqualification was motivated by gender bias, insisting that women continue to occupy strategic leadership positions within the party.
“We also reject any attempt to portray this matter as one of gender discrimination. The DLA remains one of the strongest advocates for women’s participation and leadership in politics, with women occupying strategic positions within the party,” Aguenu said.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, internal democracy, and nation-building, the party urged the public to disregard what it described as misleading narratives surrounding the matter.
“The public is therefore advised to disregard the misleading narratives being circulated. The party remains united, focused, and committed to providing credible leadership alternatives for Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
The controversy follows recent concerns raised by Modupe regarding her exclusion from the party’s presidential race, a development that has sparked debate among some party supporters and observers ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, the DLA maintains that all actions taken during the screening process were consistent with its constitution and established procedures.
