NDC Breaks Silence On Yesufu Ticket Dispute

NDC Breaks Silence On Yesufu Ticket Dispute

The Nigeria Democratic Congress has dismissed allegations that candidates were imposed during its recently concluded primary elections.

The party said its selection process was based on consultations, stakeholder engagement, consensus building and grassroots participation across the country.

It maintained that no aspirant was denied the opportunity to seek support or contest through democratic means.

The clarification followed controversy surrounding the party’s Federal Capital Territory senatorial ticket.

In a statement issued by National Secretary Ikenna Alex-Morgan Enekweizu, the party said its internal structure relies on caucus leaders in different states to coordinate consultations and make recommendations.

It explained that the South-East zone operates through a leadership arrangement linked to the political structure of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

According to the NDC, respected political figures and former public office holders were assigned to lead stakeholder engagement in their respective states.

The party stated that aspirants who disagreed with recommendations from caucus leaders were free to test their popularity through the primary election process.

It insisted that the National Secretariat did not select or impose candidates in any constituency.

The NDC added that all grievances arising from the primaries had been referred to its appeal panel, while a reconciliation process was being prepared to address complaints and strengthen party unity.

The statement came days after human rights activist Aisha Yesufu publicly criticised party leaders over the handling of the FCT senatorial ticket.

Reports indicated that tensions arose after she was not selected for the position, with party officials reportedly pointing to her late entry into the NDC.

While expressing disappointment with the outcome, Yesufu argued that the process fell short of expectations.

The party, however, maintained that its actions reflected its commitment to internal democracy and established leadership structures.