The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed allegations of irregularities and candidate imposition in its recently concluded presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly primaries.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the party’s National Secretary, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu, the NDC described the claims as products of ignorance of the party’s constitution and guidelines, as well as deliberate attempts to undermine its growing popularity.
Enekweizu said the NDC adopted a consultation and consensus-building approach before the primaries to reduce disputes and strengthen internal democracy.
He explained that in the South-East, respected political leaders, including former governors and senior statesmen, coordinated stakeholder consultations and made recommendations based on local political realities.
According to him, aspirants who disagreed with such recommendations were free to test their popularity through the primaries, stressing that the NDC National Secretariat did not impose candidates on any constituency or state.
The party also highlighted its commitment to affirmative action for women and support for serving lawmakers while maintaining that all aspirants who purchased Expression of Interest Forms were allowed to participate in the electoral process.
Enekweizu said grievances arising from the primaries had been referred to the party’s Appeal Panel and leadership for resolution, adding that a comprehensive reconciliation process had commenced following a recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
He noted that since receiving its registration certificate in February 2026, the NDC has established party structures nationwide, held two NEC meetings, and successfully conducted nationwide primaries, describing the process as a reflection of the party’s commitment to consultation, inclusiveness, and internal democracy.