NDC Defends Primaries, Says Consensus-Based Process Followed Democratic Guidelines
The leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed allegations of irregularities and candidate imposition in its recently concluded presidential, National Assembly, governorship, and state assembly primaries, insisting the exercises were transparent and conducted in line with democratic principles.
By KosofePost Reporter
The party made the clarification in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja and signed by its National Secretary, Mr Ikenna Enekweizu, describing the need for clarification as a response to “insinuations” that its primaries were flawed.
Enekweizu said the claims were based on a misunderstanding of the party’s constitution and guidelines, as well as deliberate attempts by detractors to undermine its growing influence in Nigeria’s political space.
He maintained that the NDC adopted an “innovative approach” anchored on consultation, consensus-building, and inclusiveness to reduce disputes and strengthen internal cohesion.
“The NDC, the fastest-growing political party in Nigeria, is founded on the principles of leadership, consultation, inclusiveness and consensus-building,” he said.
Addressing concerns from the South-East geopolitical zone, the party explained that respected political figures were engaged to coordinate consultations and build consensus across states. These included Onyema Ugochukwu for Abia, former Ebonyi State Governor Sam Egwu, former Enugu State Governor Okwesilieze Nwodo, and former Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa, while the presidential candidate’s team coordinated activities in Anambra.
Enekweizu said the caucus leaders were mandated to engage stakeholders and make recommendations based on local political realities without infringing on aspirants’ rights.
He stressed that the national secretariat did not impose candidates on any constituency, adding that all aspirants were encouraged to engage grassroots stakeholders and participate fully in the process.
According to him, dissatisfied aspirants retained the option of testing their popularity through democratic means at the constituency level.
He further noted that all aspirants who purchased Expression of Interest forms were accommodated in the process, with disputes referred to the party’s Appeal Panel where necessary.
Enekweizu also disclosed that the National Executive Committee (NEC) had approved a reconciliation process aimed at uniting aggrieved members ahead of future elections.
He called on stakeholders, state chairmen, caucus leaders, and party members to close ranks in the interest of party unity and sustained growth.