NDC Defends Primaries, Denies Candidate Imposition, Electoral Irregularities

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed allegations of irregularities, manipulation, and candidate imposition in its recently concluded presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and State House of Assembly primaries, insisting the exercises were transparent and guided by its internal rules.

In a statement released by the party, it noted that the primaries were conducted in line with its constitution and established guidelines, stressing that claims of manipulation were either misunderstandings or deliberate attempts to undermine its credibility.

The statement, signed by the party’s National Secretary, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu, said the NDC remains committed to internal democracy and consensus-building as part of its political structure.

According to Enekweizu, the party adopted a consultative and consensus-driven approach to reduce internal disputes and strengthen unity across its structures.

He added that the NDC was founded on the principles of leadership, consultation, inclusiveness, and consensus-building, which guided the conduct of the primaries nationwide.

Responding to criticisms, particularly from the South-East, the party explained that it relied on existing political structures linked to its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to coordinate nomination processes in the region.

Enekweizu said respected political leaders and elder statesmen served as caucus heads across the five South-East states to facilitate consultations and stakeholder engagement.

He stated that the caucus leaders were responsible for consulting stakeholders, building consensus, and making recommendations based on political realities in their respective states.

According to him, aspirants who disagreed with caucus recommendations were given the opportunity to test their popularity through open democratic competition at the grassroots level.

He insisted that no candidate was imposed by the national secretariat, adding that all aspirants were required to engage with party structures and stakeholders at all levels.

The NDC also defended its affirmative action policies aimed at increasing women’s participation and supporting serving lawmakers seeking re-election, describing them as measures to promote stability and inclusion.

While acknowledging reports of disputes arising from the primaries, the party said such complaints had been referred to its Appeal Panel and leadership for resolution.

Enekweizu disclosed that a reconciliation process had already commenced to address grievances and strengthen unity after the primaries.

He added that the National Executive Committee had approved a broader reconciliation framework involving caucus leaders, state chairmen, and other stakeholders.

The party further stated that since receiving its certificate of registration on February 5, 2026, it had expanded rapidly across the country, built structures from ward to national level, and conducted successful primaries for major elective positions.

It also claimed that based on its current representation in the National Assembly, it has emerged as Nigeria’s second-largest political party.