Primaries: NDC says no imposition of candidates

The leadership of Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, says its recently concluded presidential, National Assembly, governorship and state assembly primaries were not marred by irregularities and imposition of candidates.

The party made the clarification in a statement signed by its National Secretary, Ikenna Enekweizu on Friday in Abuja.

It described the primary elections as overwhelmingly successful and conducted in line with democratic principles, stating that the clarification became necessary due to insinuation that its primaries were marred by irregularities.

The party said the claims were based on ignorance of its constitution and guidelines as well as deliberate attempts by detractors to undermine its growing influence in the nation’s political landscape.

According to Mr Enekweizu, the party adopted an innovative approach that placed a premium on consultation, consensus-building and inclusiveness to minimise disputes and strengthen internal cohesion.

“The NDC, the fastest-growing political party in Nigeria, is founded on the principles of leadership, consultation, inclusiveness and consensus-building,” he said.

The party’s secretary particularly addressed concerns emanating from the South-East geo-political zone, where some aspirants and stakeholders had raised objections over the conduct of the primaries.

He explained that the party relied on respected political leaders and elder statesmen in the zone to coordinate consultations and make recommendations based on the political realities in their respective states.

The leaders include Onyema Ugochukwu for Abia, former Gov. Sam Egwu of Ebonyi, former Gov. of Enugu State, Okwesilieze Nwodo and former Gov. Achike Udenwa of Imo, while the team of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, coordinated activities in Anambra.

Enekweizu said the caucus leaders were mandated to engage stakeholders, build consensus and provide recommendations to the party without infringing on the rights of aspirants.

He said that any aspirant dissatisfied with recommendations made by stakeholders or caucus leaders was free to test his or her popularity through the democratic process at the grassroots level.

“At no time has the NDC National Secretariat been involved in the business of picking, choosing or imposing candidates on any constituency or state.

“Every aspirant who approached the party was received, attended to and directed to engage with the appropriate caucus leaders, stakeholders and grassroots members of the party in their respective states,” he said.

He also said that the party remained committed to affirmative action by encouraging greater participation of women in elective offices and supporting serving legislators seeking re-election.

According to him, all aspirants who purchased Expression of Interest Forms were required to participate in the primaries, while complaints arising from the process were referred to the party’s Appeal Panel and leadership for resolution.

He further disclosed that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) had resolved to commence a comprehensive reconciliation process aimed at uniting aggrieved aspirants and strengthening party cohesion ahead of future political contests.

Enekweizu called on caucus leaders, state chairmen, stakeholders and party faithful to work together in the interest of unity and the continued growth of the party.
NAN