NDC Explains Primary Election Process, Reaffirms Commitment To Internal Democracy

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has clarified the process that led to the emergence of candidates in its recently concluded primary elections, emphasizing that the exercise was guided by consultation, consensus-building, and internal democratic principles.

In a statement signed by the party's National Secretary, Barrister Ikenna Alex-Morgan Enekweizu, the NDC described itself as one of the fastest-growing political parties in Nigeria and reiterated its commitment to inclusive leadership and stakeholder participation.

According to the statement, the party operates a stakeholder leadership structure across the federation, with caucus heads overseeing consultations and consensus-building in their respective states.

The NDC noted that in the South-East geopolitical zone, its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, joined the party with an established leadership structure comprising respected elder statesmen and political leaders serving as caucus heads in the region.

The party listed the South-East caucus leaders as Chief Onyema Ugochukwu for Abia State, former Governor Sam Egwu for Ebonyi State, former Governor Okwesilieze Nwodo for Enugu State, former Governor Achike Udenwa for Imo State, while the team of Peter Obi coordinated activities in Anambra State.

The statement explained that the caucus leaders were mandated to conduct stakeholder consultations, build consensus among party members, and make recommendations based on the unique political realities in their respective states. It added that recognized stakeholders and grassroots leaders also participated in the consultative process.

The party stressed that the process did not infringe on the rights of aspirants, noting that those who disagreed with stakeholder recommendations were given the opportunity to test their popularity through the party's democratic primary process at the grassroots level.

"The NDC National Secretariat was never involved in the business of picking, choosing, or imposing candidates on any constituency or state," the statement said.

It further explained that all aspirants who approached the party were directed to engage with the appropriate caucus leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots members in their states.

The party also highlighted its affirmative action policy aimed at encouraging greater participation of women in elective positions and its commitment to supporting serving lawmakers seeking re-election. However, it maintained that all aspirants were ultimately required to participate in the primary election process.

Addressing concerns raised by some aspirants, the NDC acknowledged reports of premature declarations of candidacy and complaints regarding aspects of the primaries. The party said such issues had been referred to the appeal panel and party leadership for appropriate resolution.

Following resolutions reached at a recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, the party announced plans to commence a comprehensive reconciliation process aimed at fostering unity and cohesion among members.

The NDC called on caucus leaders, state chairmen, stakeholders, and party leaders across the country to engage aggrieved aspirants and members in the interest of strengthening the party ahead of future political engagements.

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and inclusiveness, the party stated that its role throughout the primary election period was to welcome new members and aspirants, assure them of a fair process, and direct them to their respective caucus leaders for guidance and participation.

The statement concluded that the approach reflected the party's dedication to consultation, respect for established leadership structures, internal democracy, and the collective pursuit of unity and progress.By Ekemini Victor