The Delta State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has distanced itself from a purported meeting of aspirants scheduled to hold at the residence of Professor Pat Utomi, adescribing the gathering as unauthorized and not sanctioned by the party’s leadership.
In a statement jointly signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Chief McCollins Nwose, and the State Chairman, Chief Hon. Angiamaowei Richman Oyindoubra, PhD, the party said its attention had been drawn to a notice circulating among members and on social media inviting aspirants who participated in the recently concluded party primaries to the meeting.
According to the party, the proposed gathering was neither convened, approved, authorized, nor communicated through any recognized organ or leadership structure of the NDC in Delta State.
The party, however, emphasized its deep respect and admiration for Professor Pat Utomi, describing him as a distinguished intellectual, elder statesman, respected party leader, and national figure whose contributions to democracy and nation-building remain invaluable.
The NDC stressed that its clarification should not be interpreted as a sign of disrespect to Professor Utomi, but rather as a reaffirmation of the party’s commitment to constitutional procedures and established leadership structures.
Reiterating its position, the party stated that any meeting concerning party affairs, aspirants, candidates, primaries, or future political engagements must be conducted through the appropriate organs of the party and with the knowledge and approval of the duly constituted state leadership.
The statement also drew attention to the recent restoration of six state constituencies in Delta State by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 General Election. The restored constituencies include:
- Aniocha North II State Constituency
- Ika North East II State Constituency
- Sapele II State Constituency
- Ethiope West II State Constituency
- Warri South West II State Constituency
- Warri North II State Constituency
According to the party, INEC has already fixed a timetable for the conduct of primaries in the restored constituencies, and the NDC is focused on ensuring a transparent, credible, inclusive, and orderly process in compliance with electoral guidelines.
The leadership therefore urged all aspirants, stakeholders, supporters, and members to remain calm, united, and law-abiding, emphasizing the need for discipline and collective commitment as the party prepares for the forthcoming primaries.
The party further cautioned members against participating in activities capable of creating parallel structures, generating unnecessary tension, or causing internal divisions at a critical period in the party’s development.
The Delta State leadership reiterated that all consultations, grievances, political engagements, and discussions relating to the party must be channeled through recognized constitutional organs and duly constituted leadership structures.
The statement concluded with a call for unity and loyalty among party faithful, urging members to remain committed to the principles of internal democracy, discipline, and respect for constituted authority as the party prepares for future electoral contests.
Signed:
Chief McCollins Nwose
State Publicity Secretary
Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Delta State
Chief Hon. Angiamaowei Richman Oyindoubra, PhD.
State Chairman
Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC)
For: Delta State Leadership, Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
