NDC Sues for Peace as Members Protest Alleged Irregularities in Edo

The leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has appealed for calm following a peaceful protest by party members in Edo State over alleged irregularities in the conduct of its primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The protest occurred as the party conducted nationwide primaries to select candidates for the presidential, National Assembly and House of Assembly elections. Aggrieved members accused the party’s National Working Committee of mishandling the process and creating uncertainty around the exercise.

Speaking in Benin City, the chairman of the Edo NDC primary election committee, Fred Owotorufa, insisted that the primaries would proceed and be concluded before midnight. He directed aspirants and supporters to return to their respective wards and local government areas, assuring them of a free and fair process.

Owotorufa explained that results would be transmitted from ward level to local government and constituency offices before final collation at the state level. He also maintained that the party had no preferred candidates and had provided a level playing field for all aspirants.

However, some protesters expressed dissatisfaction with the arrangements. Cletus Omoruyi alleged a lack of transparency after members were initially gathered before being instructed to return to their wards. Another protester, Monica Enabulele, said she was disappointed by what she described as poor planning and uncertainty surrounding the exercise.

A party chieftain, David Omokugbo, also demanded an explanation from the committee regarding the delay in issuing directives on the conduct of the direct primaries.

Despite the protests, party officials maintained that the exercise would continue as scheduled and urged members to cooperate to ensure a successful conclusion of the primaries.