The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has firmly denied allegations that party tickets for the 2027 general elections were exchanged for money or imposed through undemocratic means. The denial comes three weeks after the party conducted its primaries, amid growing controversy surrounding its candidate selection process.
Party Leadership Responds
Led by former Bayelsa State Governor and NDC chieftain Seriake Dickson, the party's leadership insisted that all candidates emerged through transparent and lawful procedures. Dickson dismissed reports of dictatorship and financial inducement in the allocation of tickets, stating, 'We did not trade tickets for money.' He assured party members and supporters that the official results of the primaries would be made public as soon as the appropriate electoral procedures are completed.
Delay in Candidate List Release
According to Dickson, the delay in unveiling the full list of candidates is tied to administrative requirements involving the electoral commission. 'NDC primary election results will be released soon,' he said, explaining that the party is awaiting the stage when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) opens its portal for political parties to upload the details of their candidates.
Campaign Council Fund Account
As preparations for the 2027 elections intensify, Dickson also disclosed that the party has opened a dedicated Campaign Council Fund Account to mobilise resources for its nationwide campaign activities.
Aisha Yesufu Ticket Offer
The former governor further stirred political debate with revelations about activist Aisha Yesufu, claiming that she was offered an opportunity to contest for a House of Representatives seat on the platform of the party. According to Dickson, the offer was made with the support of the party's presidential candidate, Peter Obi. 'Peter Obi and I offered Aisha Yesufu a House of Representatives ticket, but she declined because she preferred to contest for the Senate,' Dickson said. The remarks are expected to further fuel conversations around candidate selection and internal negotiations within the opposition party ahead of the 2027 polls.
Despite the criticisms trailing the primaries, NDC leaders insist the party remains united and focused on presenting credible candidates capable of challenging the ruling establishment in the next general election. The party says it will unveil its full list of candidates once INEC activates the necessary submission process, bringing an end to weeks of speculation over the outcome of its primaries.
