…Galadimma, Stakeholders frown
The National Democratic Coalition (NDC), a political party many Nigerians once viewed as a credible alternative to the ruling APC ahead of the 2027 general elections, is currently battling a deepening internal crisis following widespread allegations of irregularities, manipulation, and internal disagreements arising from its recently concluded primary elections.
The controversy has raised serious concerns about the party’s internal democratic processes and has left many aspirants dissatisfied with the outcome of the exercises conducted in several states across the country.
Before the primaries, the NDC had steadily gained public attention, particularly due to the activities of some of its prominent members who frequently spoke on national issues and governance. This visibility led many political observers to regard the party as a potential force capable of providing a strong alternative to the APC in the 2027 elections.
However, the optimism that surrounded the party has now been overshadowed by allegations of misconduct and internal power struggles fueled by the alleged ill- fated advice of Martin Agbaso, a known political trader and Ikenna Morgan Enekwizu, the NDC interim National Secretary.
The National Leader of the Party, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson earlier maintained that Candidates will emerge from a concensus arrangement which would have given the party a better sail, until the entrance of the likes of Achike Udenwa, Martins Agbaso and Co, who advised Senator Dickson to throw the sales of expression of interest forms open for the party to make money.
Several aspirants and party stakeholders have raised concerns over the conduct of the primaries, alleging that the process lacked transparency and fairness in some states after aspirants paid in 5million naira, 10million naira, 20million naira, 25million naira, 35million naira depending on the seat been sorted for.
The complaints have centered on the activities of certain national and state officials, with aggrieved members accusing party leaders of failing to uphold internal democratic principles.
One of the major issues raised by dissatisfied aspirants is the alleged sale of expression of interest forms to multiple individuals seeking the same positions against the earlier promise of the Party’s National Leader. The situation reportedly created confusion and intensified competition among aspirants who believed they were participating in a fair and transparent process, same reason why the likes of Goodluck Jonathan who the party was originally formed for, refused to continue with the party.
Many of the affected aspirants reportedly invested significant financial resources into their campaigns and preparations for the primaries, only to question the credibility of the outcome after the exercises were concluded.
While some states reportedly witnessed relatively peaceful consensus arrangements that produced candidates with minimal controversy, the experience in several southern states has generated greater concerns. Disputes over candidate emergence, delegate selection, and the conduct of the primaries have fueled tensions among party members and supporters.
The differing experiences across regions have led some stakeholders to question whether party rules and procedures were applied uniformly throughout the country.
The current crisis has also reignited debates about the direction of the party and the influence of recent political entrants within its ranks. Some members believe that the party’s rapid expansion and the admission of politicians from various political backgrounds have contributed to internal divisions and competing interests.
Many wondered why Peter Obi will allow such level of deceit and political banditry.
Information has it that the likes of Alhaji Buba Galadimma are getting tired of the whole process as he and a few other leaders have threatened to address a press conference by next week if issues are not well addressed.
As various factions seek influence ahead of the 2027 elections, concerns have emerged about the ability of the party leadership to effectively manage internal disagreements and maintain unity.
Nearly two weeks after the conclusion of several primary elections, questions remain regarding the final list of candidates expected to represent the party in different contests. The delay in resolving disputes and publishing a widely accepted candidate list has fueled speculation and heightened tensions among aspirants and party supporters.
Aspirants from Northern states have hailed Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso for the high level of leadership know-how he exhibited in making sure that candidates emerged from Northern states without crisis.
For many stakeholders, the uncertainty has become one of the most visible signs of the challenges currently confronting the party, as report has it that 67 aspirants of the NDC are already preparing to approach the courts..
A growing number of aggrieved aspirants are reportedly considering legal action over the conduct and outcome of the primaries. Political observers warn that widespread litigation could consume valuable time and resources that would otherwise be directed toward preparations for the 2027 elections.
If the disputes are not resolved through internal reconciliation mechanisms, the party could face numerous court cases across different states, potentially complicating its electoral plans.
The crisis comes at a critical period for the NDC as it seeks to establish itself as a major player in Nigeria’s political landscape. Analysts note that unresolved disputes could affect public confidence in the party and weaken its ability to present itself as a strong alternative platform.
The manner in which the leadership handles the current challenges may ultimately determine whether the party emerges stronger from the crisis or enters the 2027 election cycle divided by internal conflicts.
The aftermath of the NDC primaries has exposed significant internal challenges that now threaten to overshadow the party’s growing political profile. With allegations of irregularities, disputes over candidate emergence, uncertainty surrounding official candidate lists, and the possibility of multiple court cases, the party faces a major test of its leadership and organizational strength as most aspirants are thinking of dumping the party for PDP, following the recent victories of Goodluck Jonathan in court. Others are also considering APP and Accord.
The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as stakeholders seek solutions that could restore confidence, preserve party unity, and position the NDC for the challenges of the 2027 general elections.
