LAGOS, Nigeria — Three aspirants for the House of Representatives in Ojo Federal Constituency have rejected the outcome of the Lagos State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) primary elections, alleging that no valid election was conducted and that a candidate was imposed by party leaders.
The aggrieved aspirants, whose identities were not immediately disclosed, expressed their dissatisfaction in a joint statement issued on Tuesday. They claimed that the primary exercise, which was reportedly held to select the party’s candidate for the Ojo Federal Constituency seat, was characterised by irregularities and a blatant disregard for the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines.
According to the aspirants, no valid direct primary election was conducted in the constituency, and no lawful consensus process took place as required by the party’s rules. They alleged that the exercise was a mere imposition of a candidate through a process that excluded aspirants, stakeholders, and party members who had invested time and resources in the hope of securing the party’s ticket.
“We condemn this act in its totality and call on the national leadership of our great party to immediately intervene and ensure that a transparent and credible exercise is conducted,” the statement reads. “The current process is a disservice to the principles of democracy and internal party governance.”
The aspirants also appealed to the NDC National Chairman, Chief Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe, and other members of the National Working Committee to ensure that justice prevails and that the party does not lose its credibility in the eyes of the electorate.
The Lagos NDC chapter has yet to issue an official response to the allegations. However, party sources indicate that the leadership is reviewing the complaints and may take action to address the grievances raised.
The protest comes amid growing concerns about the conduct of primary elections across political parties in Nigeria, with aspirants frequently alleging manipulation and candidate imposition. The NDC, which recently welcomed prominent politicians into its fold, is seeking to position itself as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As the party prepares for future electoral contests, the ability to manage internal disputes and uphold democratic principles will be critical to its success. For now, the aggrieved aspirants have vowed to continue their protest until the party leadership addresses their concerns.
