Aspirants of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Enugu State for the 2027 elections have rejected any list of candidates put forward by the Okwesilieze Nwodo-led state leadership, alleging that the list was concocted without regard for the common good of the party.
Vote of No Confidence
During a meeting in Enugu, the aspirants passed a vote of no confidence on some party leaders, including Nwodo, Mathias Omeh, Major-General Fidelis Azinta (rtd), and Mr. John Nwokeabia. They accused them of anti-party activities and foisting candidates who cannot win elections in the state.
Call for National Intervention
The aspirants urged the national leadership to intervene by setting up an independent committee to supervise party activities in Enugu State. This, they said, would ensure that credible candidates emerge in strict adherence to the guidelines for the 2027 election primaries and extant electoral laws.
In a statement signed by 30 aspirants for various elective positions, they declared that no valid primary election was conducted in the state. They noted that neither direct primaries nor a consensus arrangement took place between aspirants and stakeholders, as prescribed by the party’s guidelines and the Electoral Act of 2026 (as amended).
Allegations of Hijack and Exclusion
The aspirants expressed grave concern that a small clique had hijacked the party structures and truncated the primaries, excluding the majority of stakeholders, aspirants, and grassroots members from critical decisions. They stated that at no time did Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo meet with aspirants and stakeholders toward a consensus arrangement, as stipulated in the party guidelines and electoral laws.
Condemnation of Financial Exploitation
The aspirants condemned excessive financial extortion and exploitation of aspirants within the party in Enugu State. They added that the nomination process lacked transparency and accountability, was shrouded in manipulation and irregularities, and was inconsistent with the party's founding values and principles. They unequivocally stated that the primary process undermined party guidelines and contravened the Electoral Act 2026 (as amended).
Demands for Dialogue
The aspirants urged the national leadership to grant an urgent audience to a delegation of aggrieved aspirants from the three senatorial zones of Enugu State to formally present their concerns and recommendations. They also called for a high-level stakeholders’ meeting involving the National Leader, members of the National Working Committee, state leaders, aspirants, critical stakeholders, and representatives of the three senatorial zones to address issues threatening party unity and stability in Enugu State.
Reaffirmation of Loyalty
The forum reaffirmed its commitment and loyalty to the national leadership under National Leader His Excellency Seriake Dickson, Presidential Candidate His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi, and his running mate, His Excellency Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
