NDC Rebuts Claims of Candidate Imposition, Defends Primary Election Process
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected allegations that candidates were imposed during its recently concluded primary elections, insisting that the exercises were conducted in line with democratic principles and the party's internal guidelines.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the party said reports suggesting that its presidential, governorship, National Assembly and State Assembly primaries were marred by irregularities were inaccurate and failed to reflect the consultative process that preceded the elections.
Signed by the National Secretary, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu, the statement said the NDC adopted a consensus-driven approach aimed at reducing disputes and promoting party unity, while still allowing aspirants who disagreed with stakeholder recommendations to seek mandates through the ballot.
The party maintained that its National Secretariat neither selected nor imposed candidates, noting that aspirants were encouraged to engage with caucus leaders, stakeholders and grassroots members in their respective states throughout the process.
It also highlighted efforts to promote women's participation in politics and support serving legislators, stressing that all cleared aspirants were given the opportunity to take part in the primaries.
While acknowledging concerns raised by some participants, the NDC said such complaints had been referred to the appropriate party organs for review and resolution.
The party further announced plans for a reconciliation process to bring together aspirants and stakeholders following the conclusion of the primaries, as it seeks to strengthen internal cohesion ahead of future elections.
According to the NDC, the conduct of the primaries reflects its commitment to consultation, internal democracy and inclusive leadership, values it says remain central to its growth as one of Nigeria's emerging political parties.
Benita Ibrahim
