The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has commenced a reconciliation process following its nationwide primary elections, while dismissing allegations of irregularities and the imposition of candidates as false and misleading.
The party said claims that its primaries were marred by manipulation were driven by ignorance of its constitution and electoral guidelines, as well as attempts to undermine what it described as an overwhelmingly successful exercise.
In a statement titled “Understanding the Just Concluded NDC Primary Elections,” National Publicity Secretary, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu, said the party adopted an innovative approach that prioritised consensus-building and stakeholder consultations to minimise disputes and strengthen internal cohesion.
According to him, the process was particularly effective in the South-East, where caucus leaders and political stakeholders were tasked with coordinating consultations and making recommendations based on the political realities of their respective states.
The party identified the South-East caucus leaders as Chief Onyema Ugochukwu (Abia), former Governor Sam Egwu (Ebonyi), former Governor Okwesilieze Nwodo (Enugu), former Governor Achike Udenwa (Imo), while the structure of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, coordinated activities in Anambra State.
Enekweizu explained that aspirants who disagreed with recommendations made by caucus leaders or stakeholders were free to test their popularity through the democratic process at the grassroots level.
“At no time has the NDC National Secretariat been involved in the business of picking, choosing, or imposing candidates on any constituency or state,” he said.
He added that all aspirants who approached the party were directed to engage with caucus leaders, stakeholders and grassroots members in their states, stressing that the process was conducted without prejudice to any aspirant.
The party also highlighted its affirmative action policy aimed at encouraging greater female participation in elective offices, while noting its commitment to supporting serving legislators seeking re-election.
Enekweizu acknowledged reports of some aspirants prematurely declaring themselves candidates and complaints raised by others regarding aspects of the exercise, but said such matters had been referred to the party’s Appeal Panel and leadership for resolution.
He disclosed that the National Executive Committee (NEC) had approved the commencement of a comprehensive reconciliation process to address grievances and strengthen unity within the party.
“As resolved at the NEC meeting, we now look forward to the commencement of a comprehensive reconciliation process. We count on our 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 said.
The NDC spokesman said the party’s role throughout the process was to receive new members and aspirants, reassure them of its commitment to fairness, transparency and inclusiveness, and direct them to the appropriate party structures for participation.
He maintained that the approach reflected the party’s commitment to consultation, respect for leadership structures, internal democracy and collective progress.
Enekweizu noted that since receiving its certificate of registration on February 5, 2026, the NDC has established structures from ward to national levels, held two National Executive Committee meetings and successfully conducted presidential, governorship, National Assembly and state assembly primaries across the country.
He further claimed that the party has emerged as the second-largest political party in Nigeria by virtue of its representation in the National Assembly.
Friday Olokor, Abuja.
