The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has defended the conduct of its recent primary elections, insisting that no candidate was imposed by its national leadership.
The party also maintained that all aspirants were given a fair opportunity to participate in what it described as a transparent and democratic nomination process.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Secretary, Barrister Ikenna Enekweizu, the NDC said candidate selection was guided by consultation, consensus-building, and stakeholder engagement through established party structures nationwide.
“At no time has the NDC National Secretariat been involved in the business of picking, choosing, or imposing candidates on any constituency or state,” Enekweizu said.
The party explained that aspirants were directed to engage with caucus leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots members in their respective states, who were responsible for consultations and recommendations based on local political dynamics.
According to the statement, in the South-East geopolitical zone, the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, joined the NDC alongside a network of political leaders and elder statesmen who currently serve as caucus heads across the region.
These include former governors and senior political figures such as Sam Egwu, Okwesilieze Nwodo, and Achike Udenwa.
The NDC said these leaders were tasked with conducting consultations, building consensus, and making recommendations based on their understanding of political realities in their states.
“These leaders were entrusted with conducting stakeholder consultations, building consensus, and making recommendations to the party based on their understanding of the peculiar political dynamics in their respective states,” the statement added.
The party further noted that aspirants who disagreed with stakeholder recommendations were not excluded from the process, as they were allowed to test their popularity through grassroots primaries.
“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,” it said.
The NDC acknowledged concerns raised by some aspirants following the conclusion of the primaries, including allegations of premature self-declaration and disputes over aspects of the process.
It said such complaints had been referred to its internal appeal panel for review and resolution.
The party also highlighted its commitment to affirmative action and increased female participation in politics, noting that measures were taken to encourage women to contest elective positions while balancing considerations for incumbent lawmakers.
Looking ahead, the NDC announced plans to begin a reconciliation process aimed at resolving internal disagreements and strengthening party unity.
“As resolved at yesterday’s NEC meeting, we now look forward to the commencement of a comprehensive reconciliation process,” Enekweizu said.
“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.”
The NDC reiterated that its nomination process was designed to promote inclusiveness, internal democracy, and respect for established leadership structures as it prepares for future elections.
