Dickson urges NDC supporters to avoid ‘meaningless quarrels’ ahead of 2027 election
NDC Leader Calls for Unity Ahead of 2027 Election
Senator Seriake Dickson, the national leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), urged party members to prioritize unity and avoid internal disputes as the 2027 general election approaches. His comments come in the wake of concerns surrounding alleged irregularities in the party’s recent primaries.
In a statement released Thursday, Dickson addressed these issues following an interview on ARISE TV. He acknowledged that while some aspirants expressed dissatisfaction with the primary process, he emphasized the importance of maintaining commitment to the party amid significant growth and rapid electoral timelines.
“During my interview last night, I sympathized with our aspirants over some noticeable irregularities in our just-concluded primaries,” he stated. “While the exercise may not have been perfect, I implore all our members to maintain their support for the party as we navigate these challenges.”
The NDC, which has been operational for just four months, has been tasked with conducting membership registrations, congresses, national conventions, primaries, and appeal processes within a constrained period. Dickson pointed to the requirements of the Electoral Act mandating direct primaries as a contributing factor to some of the observed issues.
“I believe the complications arose from the provisions of the Electoral Act,” he remarked. “The ruling party’s decision to mandate direct primaries has proven problematic for our political landscape.”
Dickson also noted that complaints regarding irregularities are not exclusive to the NDC, indicating similar issues have been reported by other political parties. He urged party members to dismiss unofficial results circulating online, reinforcing that the NDC has not formally announced any winners from its primaries.
“The public should ignore any claims regarding winners from our primaries that may be circulating on social media,” he reiterated. “We are waiting for formal communications through the appropriate channels.”
To address grievances stemming from the primary elections, the party’s National Executive Committee has approved the formation of a reconciliation committee. Dickson assured members that future primaries would involve technological enhancements to mitigate similar issues.
“This is our first set of primaries, and it will also be the last to be conducted manually,” he said. “Our next primaries will be technology-driven and will circumvent these problems.”
Dickson underscored the necessity for unity within the party and encouraged supporters to rally behind all NDC candidates.
“I advise all members and supporters to avoid pointless quarrels and infighting,” he stated. “Everyone should support our candidates, from the presidency down to the least elective office.”
He reaffirmed his backing for the party’s presidential candidates, Peter Obi and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing them as key partners in a collective political strategy aimed at achieving success in the upcoming elections.
