…Says critics misunderstood party constitution, guidelines
By Chimezie Godfrey
The leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed allegations that its recently concluded presidential, National Assembly, governorship and State Houses of Assembly primaries were marred by irregularities and the imposition of candidates, insisting that the exercise was conducted in line with the party’s constitution and democratic principles.
In a statement released late Thursday, the party described reports questioning the credibility of its primaries as misleading, attributing them to ignorance of the NDC’s constitutional provisions and operational guidelines, as well as deliberate attempts by political opponents unsettled by the party’s growing influence across the country.
The statement, signed by the National Secretary of the party, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu Esq, maintained that the NDC should rather be commended for introducing an innovative model that emphasized extensive consultation and consensus-building before the conduct of primaries.
According to the statement, titled “Understanding the Just Concluded NDC Primary Elections,”:
”The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), the fastest-growing political party in Nigeria, is founded on the principles of leadership, consultation, inclusiveness, and consensus-building.”
Enekweizu cited the South-East geopolitical zone as a clear example of the party’s consultative approach, noting that many of the allegations of imposition emanated from the region despite what he described as a transparent and inclusive process.
”In the South-East geopolitical zone, our presidential candidate, His Excellency Peter Obi, came into the party with an established leadership structure comprising respected elder statesmen and political leaders who serve as caucus heads in their respective states.”
He listed the caucus leaders as:
• Abia State – Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, respected veteran journalist and former Chairman of the NDDC Board.
• Ebonyi State – His Excellency Dr. Sam Egwu, former Ebonyi State Governor, former Minister, and former Senator.
• Enugu State – His Excellency Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, former Enugu Governor, former National Secretary, and former National Chairman of the PDP.
• Imo State – His Excellency Chief Achike Udenwa, former Governor and former Federal Minister.
• Anambra State – “Since His Excellency Peter Obi is our presidential candidate, his team coordinates the process in his home state, Anambra.”
The NDC National Secretary explained that these leaders were mandated to conduct stakeholder consultations, build consensus and make recommendations to the party based on political realities within their respective states.
”In addition, each state has recognized stakeholders and grassroots leaders who participate in consultations and make recommendations regarding party affairs,” he said.
Enekweizu further stressed that the process did not infringe on the rights of any aspirant.
”This process was conducted without prejudice to the rights of any aspirant. Where aspirants disagreed with recommendations made by stakeholders or caucus leaders, they were free to test their popularity through the democratic process at the grassroots level, and this was duly accommodated.”
”At no time has the NDC National Secretariat been involved in the business of picking, choosing, or imposing candidates on any constituency or state. Every aspirant who approached the party was received, attended to, and directed to engage with the appropriate caucus leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots members of the party in their respective states.”
The statement further added:
”In line with its affirmative action policy, the party has demonstrated a commitment to encouraging and supporting female participation in elective office and has done so in some cases. The party has also expressed an interest in protecting and supporting serving members of parliament. Beyond these considerations, all aspirants were referred to their state caucus leaders and all those who bought Expression of Interest Forms were asked to go into the field and participate in the primaries. We are aware of reports of some aspirants prematurely declaring themselves as candidates, as well as complaints raised by others regarding aspects of the process. These issues have been brought to the attention of the Appeal Panel and the leadership of the party and have been addressed accordingly.”
The party also announced plans to commence a broad reconciliation process aimed at strengthening unity after the primaries.
”As resolved at yesterday’s NEC meeting, we now look forward to the commencement of a comprehensive reconciliation process. We count on our esteemed caucus leaders, state chairmen, stakeholders, and party leaders to engage all aspirants and members in the interest of unity, cohesion, and the continued growth of our party.”
”For this reason, throughout the past several months, whenever aspirants or stakeholders approached the party regarding elective positions, we consistently referred them to their respective state caucus leaders. Likewise, those with concerns or grievances were advised to channel such matters through their caucuses for resolution.”
The NDC Secretary said the party’s role throughout the process was primarily facilitative.
”The party’s role during this period has been to receive new members and prospective aspirants into the NDC, welcome them to the party, reassure them of our commitment to fairness, transparency, and inclusiveness, and direct them to engage with their respective caucus leaders for guidance and participation in the process.”
”This approach,” he said, “reflects our unwavering commitment to consultation, respect for established leadership structures, internal democracy, and the collective pursuit of unity and progress within the party.”
The NDC, which formally received its certificate of registration on February 5, 2026, has within 90 days established party structures from ward to national levels, convened two National Executive Committee meetings, and successfully conducted nationwide presidential, National Assembly, governorship and State Assembly primaries.
The party is now regarded by its leadership as the second-largest political party in the country by virtue of its representation in the National Assembly.
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