A House of Representatives aspirant under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has raised alarm over an alleged plot to manipulate the party's primary election process. The aspirant, Amb. Lotanna Ikebunwa, who contested for the Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency seat, claimed in an interview that he possesses video evidence to back his allegations.
Background of the Dispute
Ikebunwa stated that he secured the highest number of votes during the primary election held on May 29. However, he expressed concern that the party's National Working Committee has not officially announced the results, leaving supporters in confusion. He accused officials deployed to conduct the primary of compromising the process to favor other interests.
According to Ikebunwa, the electoral process was manipulated after it became evident that he enjoyed overwhelming support across the three local government areas. He said, 'Available video evidence shows how the electoral process was manipulated after it became clear that my popularity had surpassed that of my opponents.'
Allegations of Rigging
Ikebunwa dismissed claims that a particular aspirant had been anointed by the party to fly its flag, insisting that such a move contradicts the party's founding principles. He maintained that the individual allegedly being considered does not have the mandate of the people and would not secure victory for the party in the constituency.
He provided specific vote counts to support his claims: over 1,000 votes in Nnewi North, 503 votes in Nnewi South, and 59 votes in Ekwusigo, where he alleged the counting process was disrupted before completion. He reiterated that he has video evidence to substantiate his allegations.
Call for Party Action
Ikebunwa called on the NDC leadership to protect the integrity of the party's internal democratic process by recognizing him as the winner and submitting his name to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He warned that any attempt to impose a candidate who did not secure the majority of votes would be challenged through legitimate channels.
He urged the party to ensure that the aspirant with the highest number of votes emerges as its flag bearer for the upcoming House of Representatives election.
Legal Challenges Facing NDC
In a related development, a fresh legal challenge has been filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking an order to compel INEC to withdraw recognition of the NDC ahead of the 2027 elections. The plaintiff, Ahidjo Karlahi, alleged that the party failed to meet key registration requirements, including compliance with application procedures and payment obligations during the registration process.
This ongoing controversy underscores the tensions within the party as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.
