NDC Primary Crisis Deepens Over Candidate Selection

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is facing growing internal tensions following its nationwide primary elections held on May 29, 2026, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

What was expected to strengthen the party’s position as a leading opposition platform has instead sparked widespread controversy over candidate selection, delayed release of official results, and allegations of manipulation in several states.

Although the party’s National Executive Committee reportedly approved the outcome of the primaries, the official list of successful candidates has yet to be released, fueling uncertainty and increasing distrust among party members.

The crisis has been particularly pronounced in Kano State, where disagreements have emerged between members of the Kwankwasiya Movement and other party stakeholders. Some officials have accused supporters of former Kano State Governor and NDC vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, of dominating the nomination process and sidelining long-standing party members.

Tensions escalated further after an unofficial list of candidates began circulating on social media, prompting complaints about alleged candidate imposition and bias within the party structure.

Similar concerns have surfaced in the South-East, where members of the Obidient Movement claim that some aspirants were treated unfairly during the process and were allegedly encouraged to spend significant sums on nomination procedures without receiving clear outcomes.

Despite the growing controversy, the party has maintained that no official list of candidates has been released and urged members to ignore unofficial documents circulating online.

Speaking on the matter, party spokesperson Osas Director said the NDC remains committed to transparency and internal democracy, adding that efforts are ongoing to reconcile aggrieved members and address concerns raised after the primaries.

The crisis has also triggered reports of possible defections, including claims that Kwankwaso could leave the party if disputes surrounding the candidate selection process remain unresolved.

In Enugu State, youth members of the party staged a protest at the NDC headquarters, demanding transparency and fairness in the selection of candidates. The protesters warned that any perceived imposition of candidates could weaken the party’s chances in future elections.

Several stakeholders have also called for clarity from the party leadership, cautioning that prolonged uncertainty could damage the NDC’s reputation and undermine public confidence.

As the situation unfolds, senior party figures, including former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson, have reportedly stepped in to mediate between competing factions.

Dickson stated that efforts are underway to integrate both the Kwankwasiya and Obidient movements into the party’s national structure, describing the groups as important political forces capable of strengthening the NDC’s grassroots support.

However, internal disagreements remain unresolved.

A senior party official from the South-East warned that replacing candidates who emerged through the primary process could lead to legal challenges and further destabilize the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

The controversy has also spilled into the wider political arena.

Former Labour Party spokesman Kenneth Okonkwo recently accused senior party figures of involvement in financial inducement during the nomination process. The allegations were strongly denied by party leader Peter Obi, who has since initiated legal action against Okonkwo.

Political analysts believe the ongoing crisis highlights deeper structural challenges within the NDC, particularly as the party continues to expand rapidly and accommodate multiple political blocs with differing interests.

According to observers, while the party has gained significant popularity in recent years, it still faces challenges in building the internal cohesion required to manage nationwide primary elections effectively.

Despite the tensions, NDC officials insist reconciliation efforts are progressing and remain confident that disputes will be resolved before the 2027 polls.

However, analysts warn that failure to address the grievances and provide clarity on the candidate selection process could negatively affect the party’s credibility and electoral prospects.

As consultations continue, the NDC is under increasing pressure to restore unity, finalize its candidate list, and demonstrate its commitment to transparency and internal democracy ahead of the next general election.