Ondaje: NDC Undeterred By Court Order, Confident Of 2027 Election Participation
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Otukpo/Akpa State Constituency seat in the 2027 Benue State House of Assembly election, Hon. Emmanuel Ondaje Stephen, has expressed confidence that the party will overcome its current legal challenges and participate fully in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during a media interview, Ondaje dismissed concerns over reports that a Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja had ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to register the NDC, describing the development as part of an ongoing legal process rather than a final verdict.
According to him, the party remains calm and committed to the rule of law.
"We have taken note of the reports circulating on social media regarding the alleged court order. As a law-abiding political movement, the NDC respects the judiciary and all legal processes. An interim order is not a final judgment, and our legal team is carefully studying the matter," he said.
Ondaje maintained that the legal development would not derail the party's political ambition, insisting that the NDC's mission to provide Nigerians with a credible alternative remains intact.
He expressed confidence that the party would eventually secure recognition to contest elections, adding that its structures across Benue State, particularly in Otukpo/Akpa, remain active and focused on grassroots mobilization.
"The NDC is built for the long haul. Our legal team is already engaging the appropriate processes to ensure justice is served. We have faith that due process will prevail, and our focus on 2027 remains unchanged," he stated.
Introducing himself during the interview, Ondaje said he is the NDC candidate for the Otukpo/Akpa State Constituency in the 2027 Benue State House of Assembly election, with a commitment to providing effective representation and advancing the party's vision of people-centered governance.
Addressing questions on the party's registration status, he explained that the NDC has complied with constitutional and statutory requirements for political party registration and has remained engaged with INEC throughout the process.
He noted that legal contestations are not unusual for emerging political movements, stressing that the ongoing court matter should not be interpreted as a failure on the part of the party.
"The current legal process reflects the realities of democratic development. We remain committed to fulfilling every legal requirement and are confident that the NDC will ultimately be recognized to participate in elections," he added.
Ondaje also appealed to party supporters across Benue State and Nigeria to remain peaceful, law-abiding and committed to the party's ideals despite the recent developments.
He urged members not to be discouraged, describing the legal challenge as temporary and insisting that the NDC remains focused on its agenda of improving education, healthcare, security, and youth and women empowerment.
"The NDC represents a new generation of leadership committed to delivering people-focused governance. We remain resolute in our mission, and together we believe a new light will shine for Nigeria in 2027," he said.
