The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has submitted the nomination particulars of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal, the party's National Leader, Seriake Dickson, announced on his X (formerly Twitter) handle. Dickson stated that the vice presidential candidate's details would be uploaded once necessary documentation is completed, while submissions for other elective positions are ongoing.
Party Complies with INEC Timetable
Dickson confirmed that the NDC has adhered to the INEC timetable, noting there is ample time to upload candidates for the National Assembly, governorship, and state Houses of Assembly before their respective deadlines. He urged calm, saying, "There is enough time for all candidates' names to be submitted to INEC and there is no reason for anyone to panic."
Appeal Filed Against Court Ruling
The former Bayelsa governor also revealed that the NDC has filed an appeal against a court ruling affecting the party, along with an application for a stay of execution. Both documents have been served to the INEC chairman, with a request for the commission to act lawfully. Dickson emphasized that the NDC remains a duly registered political party, having concluded its nomination processes nationwide through primaries monitored by INEC.
Administrative Process Underway
According to Dickson, the remaining step is the administrative submission of qualified candidates' names via the INEC portal, to which the party has been granted access. He thanked aspirants for their participation in the primaries, acknowledging challenges but noting ongoing reconciliation efforts for aggrieved members. Unsuccessful aspirants will be integrated into the party's campaign structures and committees, described as the backbone of the NDC.
Commendation for INEC and Call for Neutrality
Dickson commended INEC, led by Joash Amupitan, for its professionalism, particularly in registering the NDC and two other parties following a court order. He urged the electoral commission, judiciary, and security agencies to remain neutral in safeguarding Nigeria's democracy, expressing confidence that the courts will resolve the pending appeal lawfully. The NDC leader reaffirmed that the party "has come to stay" and called on Nigerians to support democratic institutions and the multi-party system.
