The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) concluded its primaries last week, but the party’s failure to release official results has sparked widespread confusion and speculation. Held across the country to pick candidates for the 2027 elections, the exercise was followed by a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting intended to review the outcomes. However, days later, no official word has emerged, leaving aspirants and supporters in limbo.
In a statement, NDC National Publicity Secretary Osa Director urged the public to ignore unofficial results circulating on social media, insisting that only the NEC is authorized to announce winners. He assured that the ratified candidate list would be made public before submission to INEC, but the delay has fueled doubts about transparency.
An aspirant, who spoke anonymously, revealed that many candidates have relocated to Abuja to monitor developments. He expressed frustration at the lack of communication, noting that the delay erodes trust in the party’s commitment to democratic principles.
Chinedu Raymond Obue, an aspirant for the Anambra State House of Assembly, demanded that the party respect the primary outcome in Awka South Constituency II, where he claims to have won 625 votes against his opponent’s 73. He warned that any attempt to manipulate the results would damage the party’s credibility.
A senior NDC official from the Southeast criticized the leadership for establishing a so-called “selection committee” after the primaries, calling it an undemocratic move. He alleged that powerful figures who lost in the polls are now influencing the NEC to overturn results, which could lead to legal battles. “If the final list differs from what emerged on the ground, it will destroy the party,” he said.
However, Professor James Ene-Nwannaji, who emerged as the party’s governorship candidate in Enugu State, dismissed fears of manipulation. He stated that his primary was conducted freely, monitored by INEC, and that he expects the NEC to confirm his victory after completing its review. “I am not agitated. They will find no irregularities,” he added.
Political analysts warn that the NDC’s handling of this process mirrors the controversies that have plagued other parties, undermining its promise of a fresh approach to internal democracy. As the wait continues, the risk of defections and legal challenges grows.