NDC dismisses candidate imposition claims, defends primaries

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has pushed back against allegations that its recent primaries were characterised by irregularities and the imposition of candidates, insisting that the exercise was conducted in line with the party’s constitution and internal guidelines.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, the party’s National Secretary, Morgan Enekweizu, said criticisms surrounding the presidential, governorship, National Assembly and state assembly primaries were largely driven by misunderstanding of the party’s procedures and efforts to discredit its growing political influence.

According to him, the NDC deliberately adopted a consensus-based approach to candidate selection in order to strengthen unity, minimise disputes and promote inclusiveness within the party.

“The NDC, the fastest-growing political party in Nigeria, is founded on the principles of leadership, consultation, inclusiveness and consensus-building,” Enekweizu said.

He explained that the party relied on state caucuses and stakeholders to engage aspirants, build consensus and make recommendations based on local political realities.

Using the South-East as an example, Enekweizu said the party worked through established political leaders and caucus heads, including former governors and other prominent figures, to coordinate the primary process.

He maintained that aspirants who were dissatisfied with recommendations made by party leaders were not excluded from the contest.

“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,” he stated.

The NDC secretary stressed that the party’s national leadership did not interfere in candidate selection.

“At no time has the NDC national secretariat been involved in the business of picking, choosing, or imposing candidates on any constituency or state,” he said.

Enekweizu also highlighted the party’s affirmative action policy, which he said was designed to encourage greater participation of women in elective offices while supporting serving lawmakers seeking re-election.

Addressing complaints arising from the primaries, he disclosed that reported grievances and cases involving self-declared candidates had been referred to the party’s Appeal Panel and leadership for resolution.

He added that the party’s National Executive Committee had already approved a reconciliation process aimed at healing divisions and strengthening cohesion ahead of future political contests.

“As resolved at Wednesday’s NEC meeting, we now look forward to the commencement of a comprehensive reconciliation process,” he said.

The NDC, which was officially registered by the electoral commission in February 2026, said it has since established structures across the country, conducted nationwide primaries and expanded its presence in the National Assembly.

The party further claimed that its legislative representation now makes it the country’s second-largest political party.