The leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed allegations that its recently concluded presidential, National Assembly, governorship and state Houses of Assembly primaries were marred by irregularities and the imposition of candidates.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, the NDC National Secretary, Morgan Enekweizu, said criticisms of the primaries stemmed from ignorance of the party’s constitution and guidelines, as well as deliberate attempts to undermine the party’s growing influence.
According to him, the party should instead be commended for adopting a consensus-driven approach aimed at reducing disputes and fostering unity among members.
He said, “The NDC, the fastest-growing political party in Nigeria, is founded on the principles of leadership, consultation, inclusiveness, and consensus-building.”
Enekweizu cited the South-East as an example, noting that the party’s approach in the region had been particularly effective despite claims to the contrary.
“In the South-East geopolitical zone, our presidential candidate, His Excellency Peter Obi, came into the party with an established leadership structure comprising respected elder statesmen and political leaders who serve as caucus heads in their respective states.
“They include former Chairman of the NDDC Board, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu (Abia); ex-Ebonyi State Governor, former minister and senator, Dr Sam Egwu; former PDP National Chairman and former Enugu State Governor, Dr Okwesilieze Nwodo; former Imo State Governor, Chief Achike Udenwa; and Obi’s team, which coordinates the process in his home state of Anambra,” he said.
The NDC secretary explained that the caucus leaders were mandated to conduct consultations, build consensus and make recommendations based on the political realities in their states.
He added that aspirants who disagreed with recommendations made by stakeholders or caucus leaders were given the opportunity to test their popularity 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.
“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 further said the party’s affirmative action policy had encouraged greater participation of women in elective offices while also seeking to protect and support serving lawmakers.
He noted that all aspirants who purchased expression of interest forms were directed to participate in the primaries through established structures in their states.
“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.
“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.
“For this reason, throughout the past several months, whenever aspirants or stakeholders approached the party regarding elective positions, we consistently referred them to their respective state caucus leaders. Likewise, those with concerns or grievances were advised to channel such matters through their caucuses for resolution,” Enekweizu said.
The party scribe said the NDC’s role throughout the process was to welcome new members and aspirants, reassure them of fairness and transparency, and direct them to relevant party structures for participation.
“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, has since established structures from the ward to the national level, held two National Executive Committee meetings, and conducted nationwide primaries for various elective positions.
The party also claimed to have become the second-largest political party in the country based on its representation in the National Assembly.
