The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed allegations of candidate imposition and irregularities in its recently concluded nationwide primaries, insisting that the exercise was transparent, inclusive, and guided by the party’s constitution and internal procedures.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday by the party’s National Secretary, Morgan Enekweizu, the NDC said reports questioning the credibility of the primaries were either based on misunderstanding of its guidelines or deliberate attempts to undermine the party’s growing political influence.
According to the party, the primaries—covering presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and State Houses of Assembly positions—were conducted through a consensus-driven and consultation-based approach aimed at reducing disputes and strengthening internal unity.
Enekweizu explained that the party relied heavily on state caucuses and senior political stakeholders to engage aspirants, build consensus, and make recommendations based on local political realities.
He noted that in the South-East, respected political leaders and former governors served as caucus heads coordinating consultations across their respective states, while aspirants who were not satisfied with recommendations were allowed to test their popularity through grassroots processes.
The NDC maintained that at no point did its national secretariat engage in the imposition of candidates, stressing that all aspirants were given equal opportunity to participate in the process through established party structures.
The party also highlighted its affirmative action policy, which it said was designed to encourage greater participation of women in elective positions, as well as its support for serving lawmakers seeking re-election.
It further disclosed that grievances arising from the primaries had been referred to its appeal panel, adding that a reconciliation process has already begun following a recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
The party said the move is aimed at healing internal divisions, strengthening unity, and consolidating its structures ahead of future elections.
The NDC also claimed that its growing representation in the National Assembly has positioned it as the second-largest political party in the country.
