NDC Defends Primaries, Denies Imposition of Candidates

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed allegations of irregularities and candidate imposition in its recently concluded presidential, governorship, National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly primaries.

 

In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, the party’s National Secretary, Morgan Enekweizu, said criticisms of the exercise were based on a misunderstanding of the party’s constitution and guidelines, as well as deliberate attempts to discredit the party.

 

Enekweizu said the NDC adopted a consensus-driven approach designed to reduce disputes, strengthen internal cohesion and promote inclusiveness.

 

“The NDC, the fastest-growing political party in Nigeria, is founded on the principles of leadership, consultation, inclusiveness, and consensus-building,” he said.

 

He cited the South-East as an example of the party’s consultative model, noting that the region operates through an established leadership structure made up of respected political figures and caucus leaders.

 

According to him, these leaders include former NDDC Board Chairman, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu (Abia); former Ebonyi State Governor and ex-minister, Dr Sam Egwu; former PDP National Chairman and former Enugu State Governor, Dr Okwesilieze Nwodo; former Imo State Governor, Chief Achike Udenwa; and the political structure of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Anambra State.

 

Enekweizu explained that caucus leaders were mandated to consult stakeholders, build consensus and make recommendations based on local political realities.

 

He stressed that aspirants who disagreed with such recommendations were free to contest through the democratic process.

 

“In addition, each state has recognised stakeholders and grassroots leaders who participate in consultations and make recommendations regarding party affairs.

 

“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,” he said.

 

The NDC secretary maintained that the party’s national secretariat did not impose candidates on any constituency or state.

 

“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,” he stated.

 

Enekweizu added that the party’s affirmative action policy had encouraged greater participation of women while also supporting serving lawmakers seeking re-election.

 

He acknowledged that some aspirants had raised concerns about aspects of the primaries but said such complaints had been referred to the party’s appeal panel and leadership for resolution.

 

“We are aware of reports that some aspirants prematurely declared themselves 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,” he said.

 

He disclosed that the party had begun a reconciliation process following resolutions reached at its National Executive Committee meeting on Wednesday.

 

“As resolved at Wednesday’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,” he added.

 

According to Enekweizu, the NDC’s role throughout the process was to ensure fairness, transparency and adherence to established party structures.

 

“This approach reflects our unwavering commitment to consultation, respect for established leadership structures, internal democracy, and the collective pursuit of unity and progress within the party,” he said.

 

The NDC, which received its certificate of registration on February 5, 2026, said it has since established structures nationwide, held two National Executive Committee meetings and conducted primaries for elective positions across the country.

 

The party also claimed it has become the second-largest political party in Nigeria based on its representation in the National Assembly.