NDC Sets Up 20-Member Committee Ahead Of Party Primaries
Party says committee will ensure credible candidate selection and strengthen internal democracy ahead of governorship and National Assembly primaries.
NDC Begins Preparations For Primaries
NIGERIA Democratic Congress has constituted a 20-member National Selection Committee to supervise the screening and selection of governorship and National Assembly aspirants ahead of its forthcoming party primaries.
The party said the move was designed to promote transparency, strengthen internal democracy and ensure the emergence of credible candidates for future elections.
In a statement signed by the party’s National Secretary, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu, the committee’s formation followed approval by the party’s national leadership after recommendations from the National Working Committee.
Political observers say the development signals the party’s efforts to position itself ahead of intensified political activities leading to the 2027 general elections.
Committee To Review Aspirants
According to the party, the National Selection Committee will examine and review reports submitted by the National Screening Committee before taking final decisions on the eligibility of aspirants.
The committee is chaired by Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe, while Enekweizu will serve as secretary.
Other members include notable political figures and party stakeholders drawn from different parts of the country, including Buba Galadima, Udenta Udenta and Yunusa Tanko.
The party explained that only aspirants cleared by both committees would be permitted to purchase nomination forms.
Consensus Option Before Direct Primaries
The NDC stated that its candidate selection process would prioritise consensus-building among aspirants where possible.
However, the party noted that direct primaries would be conducted in situations where consensus arrangements fail.
According to the timetable released by the party, direct primaries are expected to hold between 28 and 30 May 2026.
Party officials appealed to aspirants and members for patience and cooperation, citing the tight timelines surrounding the exercise.
Analysts say many political parties are increasingly adopting consensus arrangements in a bid to reduce internal conflicts and litigation often associated with party primaries.
Party Seeks Credibility, Unity
The NDC said the committee would be formally inaugurated on 25 May before commencing its assignment immediately.
Party leaders maintained that the process was intended to strengthen unity within the organisation while ensuring free and credible participation for aspirants.
The party added that a transparent selection process would improve public confidence and position the NDC more competitively ahead of future elections.
Political analysts note that internal party management and candidate selection remain critical factors influencing electoral success in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive political environment.
