The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has defended the conduct of its recently concluded primary elections, insisting that the process was guided by consultation, inclusiveness, stakeholder engagement, and internal democracy.
In a statement issued by the party leadership, the NDC responded to concerns raised by some aspirants and stakeholders following the primaries, stressing that candidates emerged through a structured process involving caucus leaders, grassroots consultations, and democratic participation across the federation.
The party also announced plans to begin a comprehensive reconciliation process aimed at uniting members and strengthening its preparations for future elections.
The statement comes amid growing political interest in the NDC, which has positioned itself as one of Nigeria’s rapidly expanding political platforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.
NDC Explains Primary Election Process
According to the party, its leadership structure is built around stakeholder consultation and consensus-building, with caucus leaders operating in states across the country.
The NDC explained that in the South-East geopolitical zone, its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, joined the party alongside an existing network of respected political leaders and elder statesmen who serve as caucus heads in their respective states.
The party identified key South-East caucus leaders as former governors, ministers, and senior political figures entrusted with coordinating consultations and making recommendations based on local political realities.
According to the statement, these leaders worked closely with grassroots stakeholders and party members to identify suitable candidates while ensuring broad participation in the process.
The party emphasized that recommendations made by caucus leaders were not binding on aspirants and that every contestant retained the right to seek support directly from members through the democratic process.
Party Denies Imposing Candidates
Responding to allegations that certain candidates were favored during the primaries, the NDC firmly denied claims of imposition.
The party maintained that the National Secretariat never selected candidates for constituencies or states and instead directed all aspirants to engage with stakeholders and caucus leaders in their respective areas.
According to the statement, every individual who purchased an Expression of Interest Form was encouraged to participate fully in the primary elections.
The leadership argued that its role was limited to providing administrative support, ensuring fairness, and creating an enabling environment for members to exercise their democratic rights.
Party officials said aspirants dissatisfied with stakeholder recommendations were given opportunities to test their popularity through grassroots voting and consultations.
Commitment to Women and Serving Lawmakers
The NDC also highlighted its affirmative action policy, noting that the party remains committed to increasing female participation in politics.
The statement revealed that efforts were made to encourage women seeking elective offices, while the party also expressed interest in supporting serving lawmakers in certain circumstances.
However, the leadership stressed that these considerations did not override democratic processes, adding that all aspirants were ultimately expected to engage party members and stakeholders during the primaries.
Political analysts note that affirmative action policies have become increasingly important within Nigerian political parties as calls for greater representation of women continue to grow.
Appeal Panel Reviews Complaints
Addressing concerns raised after the primaries, the NDC acknowledged receiving reports of disputes and complaints from some aspirants.
The party disclosed that these issues had been referred to the appropriate appeal mechanisms and reviewed by party leadership.
According to the statement, reports of individuals prematurely declaring themselves candidates and other procedural grievances were carefully examined and addressed through established internal processes.
The leadership expressed confidence that the appeal procedures helped maintain transparency and credibility throughout the exercise.
Observers say effective dispute-resolution mechanisms are essential in preventing internal disagreements from escalating into larger political crises.
Reconciliation Process Begins
Following discussions at a recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, the NDC announced plans to launch a nationwide reconciliation initiative.
The exercise is expected to involve caucus leaders, state chairmen, stakeholders, and party elders working together to engage aggrieved aspirants and members.
Party officials said the objective is to strengthen unity, promote cohesion, and ensure that all members remain committed to the party’s broader goals.
The NDC emphasized that political competition within the party should not undermine collective efforts to build a stronger organization capable of achieving electoral success.
Focus Shifts to Party Growth
As preparations for future elections continue, the NDC says it remains committed to transparency, consultation, and inclusiveness.
The party reiterated that its primary objective is to expand its membership base, strengthen internal democracy, and provide a platform where all members can participate fairly in decision-making processes.
Political observers believe the reconciliation effort will play a crucial role in determining how effectively the party manages post-primary tensions and positions itself ahead of future electoral contests.
With growing national attention on emerging political alliances and opposition movements, the NDC’s ability to maintain unity after its primaries could become a significant factor in shaping its political fortunes in the coming years.
