NDC Denies Imposing Candidates For 2027 Elections

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected allegations that its recently concluded primaries for the 2027 general elections were characterised by irregularities and the imposition of candidates, insisting that the process was transparent and guided by extensive consultations across party structures.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, the party’s National Secretary, Morgan Enekweizu, described the criticisms trailing the presidential, governorship, National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly primaries as unfounded, attributing them to a poor understanding of the party’s constitution and guidelines, as well as attempts to discredit the party.

Enekweizu maintained that the NDC adopted a consensus-based model to minimise conflicts, strengthen internal cohesion and ensure broad participation by stakeholders.

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

Defending the conduct of the primaries, he pointed to the South-East geopolitical zone as a model of the party’s consultative approach, noting that the process was anchored on established leadership structures in the region.

According to him, the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, joined the NDC with a network of experienced political leaders and elder statesmen who serve as caucus heads in their respective states.

He listed prominent figures involved in the process to include former Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission Board, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu in Abia State; former Ebonyi State Governor and ex-minister, Dr Sam Egwu; former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Enugu State Governor, Dr Okwesilieze Nwodo; former Imo State Governor, Chief Achike Udenwa; as well as Obi’s political team in Anambra State.

Enekweizu explained that the caucus leaders were tasked with consulting party members, building consensus and making recommendations based on prevailing political realities within their states.

He stressed that aspirants dissatisfied with the recommendations were not shut out of the process but were allowed to contest and demonstrate their popularity through democratic mechanisms at the grassroots.

“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,” he stated.

The NDC secretary further insisted that the party’s national leadership never interfered in the selection of candidates.

“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 added.

Enekweizu also highlighted the party’s affirmative action policy, saying it had boosted female participation in elective politics while ensuring support for serving lawmakers seeking re-election.

He noted that all aspirants who purchased expression of interest forms were required to participate in the primaries through recognised structures within their states.

Addressing concerns raised after the primaries, the party official acknowledged reports of some aspirants declaring themselves candidates before the completion of the process, as well as complaints from others regarding aspects of the exercise.

He said such matters had been reviewed by the party’s Appeal Panel and leadership and were resolved accordingly.

Enekweizu disclosed that the National Executive Committee had approved a reconciliation process aimed at healing divisions and strengthening unity within the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

“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,” he said.

He reiterated that throughout the nomination process, aspirants and stakeholders were consistently directed to engage with their state caucus leaders and established party structures, while grievances were channelled through the same mechanisms for resolution.

According to him, the role of the national secretariat was limited to welcoming aspirants and new members, assuring them of fairness and transparency, and guiding them through the party’s structures.

“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,” Enekweizu said.

The NDC, which obtained its certificate of registration on February 5, 2026, said it has since built structures across the country, held two National Executive Committee meetings and conducted nationwide primaries for various elective positions.

The party also claimed it has emerged as the second-largest political party in Nigeria in terms of representation in the National Assembly.