The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) primary election in Enugu State has been marred by controversy, with several aspirants crying foul over alleged manipulation. The exercise, which began earlier today under the faction led by Ibuchukwu Obetta, has been plagued by delays and accusations of irregularities.
At various polling stations across the state, candidates reported that no party officials showed up for hours, leaving them waiting indefinitely. Social media has been flooded with videos showing frustrated supporters gathered at empty venues, demanding answers.
Some contestants have already declared themselves winners without official confirmation. One of the aggrieved aspirants, Obeta Davidwilliams, announced his withdrawal from the process, citing what he described as widespread tampering. He stated, “The level of malpractice and manipulation currently unfolding within the NDC is among the most disturbing political spectacles I have witnessed in recent times.”
In another incident, Mr. Mathias Ezeaku, who is vying for the ticket in Igbo-Etiti/Uzo-Uwani Federal Constituency, claimed victory but alleged that a party official absconded with the result sheet. In a viral video, he said, “I won the primary election for the Federal House of Reps in Uzo-Uwani and also in Igbo-Etiti, but when the party official was about to write the result, Prof Abukue ran away with the sheet.” His supporters responded with chants of “we no go gree o” and “winner oooo”.
Further allegations have emerged that former Enugu State Governor Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo submitted a list of preferred candidates to the party. The purported list includes retired Permanent Secretary Chinyeaka Oha for governorship, Princess Ada Ogbu for Enugu East Senatorial seat, Bishop Oscar Osai for Enugu North Senate, and Barr. O. A. U. Onyema for Enugu East. Former Reps member Pat Asadu was reportedly not favored. Other names on the list are Dr. John Nwokeabia, Barr. Agubuzu, Barr. Fide Ani, and Dr. Clinton Ide, while Ikembuchukwu Nwodo and Uche Aneke were allegedly dropped.
As of this report, the Obetta faction has yet to announce any official winners from the exercise.