NDC Primaries Controversy as Nigeria Democratic Congress denies allegations of imposition and defends consensus-based candidate selection process
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed allegations of irregularities and candidate imposition during its recent primaries, insisting that the exercise was conducted strictly in line with its constitution and internal guidelines.
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The party’s National Secretary, Morgan Enekweizu, made the clarification in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, where he addressed concerns surrounding the presidential, governorship, National Assembly and state assembly primaries.
Enekweizu said the criticisms were largely based on misunderstandings of the party’s internal procedures and deliberate attempts to undermine its growing political influence.
He explained that the party adopted a consensus-driven approach to candidate selection to promote unity, reduce internal disputes and encourage inclusiveness among members.
According to him, the NDC’s structure relies heavily on state caucuses and stakeholder engagement, where aspirants are assessed and recommendations are made based on local political realities.
Using the South-East as an example, he said party leaders, including former governors and key political figures, played a role in coordinating consultations that informed the primary process.
Enekweizu maintained that no aspirant was excluded from the process, stressing that disagreements with recommendations did not prevent candidates from contesting at the grassroots level.
He further insisted that the national leadership of the party did not interfere in the selection or imposition of candidates across any state or constituency.
The party secretary also highlighted the NDC’s affirmative action policy aimed at increasing women’s participation in politics and supporting serving lawmakers seeking re-election.
He disclosed that complaints arising from the primaries had been referred to the party’s Appeal Panel for review, while a broader reconciliation process had been approved by the National Executive Committee.
The NDC added that it is currently implementing measures to strengthen internal cohesion following its nationwide primaries, which it says were conducted across all levels of elective offices.
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The party, which was officially registered in February 2026, also claimed it has expanded its political structure nationwide and now holds significant representation in the National Assembly, positioning it as a growing force in the country’s political landscape.
