The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected claims that irregularities and candidate imposition characterized its recently concluded primaries for the presidency, National Assembly, governorships, and state Houses of Assembly seats.
In a statement released in Abuja on Thursday, the party’s National Secretary, Morgan Enekweizu, described the allegations as unfounded, attributing them to a poor understanding of the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines, as well as attempts by critics to diminish the influence of the rapidly expanding political movement.
Enekweizu argued that rather than attracting criticism, the party should be praised for embracing a consensus-based model designed to minimize conflicts and strengthen internal unity.
He said, “The NDC, the fastest-growing political party in Nigeria, is founded on the principles of leadership, consultation, inclusiveness, and consensus-building.”
Explaining the process adopted during the primaries, the party secretary pointed to the South-East region as a notable example of how the strategy worked effectively despite contrary allegations.
“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.
According to Enekweizu, these caucus leaders were tasked with consulting stakeholders, building consensus, and making recommendations based on the political realities within their states.
He stressed that aspirants who disagreed with decisions or recommendations made by party leaders were not prevented from contesting, noting that they were allowed to test their popularity through the established 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.
The NDC secretary further highlighted the party’s affirmative action policy, saying it had encouraged increased female participation in elective positions while also providing support for incumbent lawmakers.
He said aspirants who obtained expression of interest forms were instructed to participate in the primary process through the recognised structures operating in their various states.
Addressing concerns raised after the primaries, Enekweizu said party leaders had taken steps to resolve complaints and reports involving aspirants.
READ ALSO: 2027: NDC NEC Ratifies Primaries, Backs Obi Kwankwaso Ticket
“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.
He added that the party’s responsibility throughout the exercise was to receive new members and aspirants, assure them of a transparent and fair process, and direct them to the appropriate party organs responsible for handling their 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 received its certificate of registration on February 5, 2026, and has since built structures across all levels of the party, from wards to the national leadership.
It has also convened two National Executive Committee meetings and successfully conducted nationwide primaries for various elective offices.
The party further maintains that, based on its representation in the National Assembly, it has emerged as the country’s second-largest political party.