Confusion, Uncertainty as NDC Delays Announcing Results Days After Primaries

Confusion and uncertainty have continued to trail the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) following its failure to officially announce the results of its nationwide primary elections held on May 28 and 29 ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party recently distanced itself from several results circulating on social media, insisting that only the National Executive Council (NEC) is authorised to release the official outcome of the primaries after completing its review and ratification processes.

In a statement, NDC National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, urged members of the public to disregard unofficial results, assuring stakeholders that the final list of candidates would be released before submission to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Despite the assurance, the delay has generated anxiety among aspirants and supporters across the country. Several party members are reportedly awaiting clarification on the outcome of contests in various constituencies and districts.

One of the aspirants told journalists that many contestants have remained in Abuja since the conclusion of the primaries in a bid to obtain firsthand information regarding the party’s decision-making process.

Concerns have also emerged over reports of a selection committee allegedly reviewing outcomes from the primaries. Some party stakeholders fear that the process could undermine internal democracy and trigger legal disputes if candidates different from those elected during the primaries are eventually announced.

Among those expressing concern is House of Assembly aspirant Chinedu Raymond Obue, who urged the party to respect the outcome of the primary election for Awka South Constituency II in Anambra State. Obue claimed he secured victory in a transparent process and warned against any attempt to alter the results.

An unnamed party official from the South-East also criticised the delay, alleging that efforts were being made to favour certain aspirants despite the completion of primary elections. He warned that such actions could damage the party’s credibility and result in court cases.

However, Enugu governorship aspirant James Ene-Nwannaji dismissed speculation that the outcome of his primary election could be changed. He insisted the exercise was conducted according to established procedures and monitored by INEC officials.

As uncertainty persists, party members nationwide continue to await the official announcement of candidates, with many observers describing the situation as a critical test of the NDC’s commitment to transparency and internal democracy.