The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected claims that its recently concluded presidential, governorship, National Assembly and state House of Assembly primaries were characterised by irregularities or the imposition of candidates.
The party’s National Secretary, Morgan Enekweizu, said in a statement issued on Thursday that the criticisms were largely based on misunderstandings of the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines, as well as attempts by opponents to discredit the party’s growing influence.
Enekweizu maintained that the NDC adopted a consensus-driven approach during the primaries to promote unity, reduce conflicts and strengthen internal democracy.
According to him, the party’s leadership structure is built on consultation, inclusiveness and collective decision-making.
“The NDC is founded on the principles of leadership, consultation, inclusiveness and consensus-building,” he said.
He cited the South-East as an example of how the party’s consultation process worked, explaining that key political figures and elder statesmen were entrusted with coordinating discussions and building consensus among members and aspirants.
Among those involved, he said, were prominent leaders such as Peter Obi, former governors, former ministers and senior political stakeholders who served as caucus leaders in their respective states.
Enekweizu explained that these caucus leaders were responsible for consulting party members, assessing political realities and making recommendations based on the interests of the party.
He stressed that aspirants who disagreed with recommendations made by party stakeholders were free to test their popularity through the primary election process.
“At no time did the national secretariat pick, choose or impose candidates on any constituency or state,” he said.
The party secretary noted that every aspirant who purchased an expression of interest form was directed to engage with recognised party structures, including caucus leaders, stakeholders and grassroots members in their states.
He also highlighted the party’s affirmative action policy, which seeks to encourage greater participation of women in politics while supporting serving lawmakers seeking re-election.
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Enekweizu acknowledged that some complaints emerged after the primaries, including disputes from aspirants and reports of individuals prematurely declaring themselves candidates.
However, he said such concerns had been referred to the party’s Appeal Panel and leadership for review and resolution.
He added that the National Executive Committee had already approved a reconciliation process aimed at uniting members and resolving any lingering disagreements arising from the primaries.
“We are now looking forward to a comprehensive reconciliation process that will strengthen unity and cohesion within the party,” he said.
According to him, the NDC’s role throughout the exercise was to ensure fairness, transparency and equal opportunities for all aspirants while directing them through established party structures.
The party, which received its registration certificate on February 5, 2026, said it has since established structures across the country, held two National Executive Committee meetings and successfully conducted nationwide primaries for various elective positions.
The NDC also claimed it has rapidly expanded its political presence and now ranks among the country’s leading opposition parties based on its representation in the National Assembly.
