NDC opts for direct voting system in selecting state assembly candidates

The National Working Committee of the Nigeria Democratic Congress has given its stamp of approval to the report submitted by its screening committee, paving the way for direct primaries to be held for State Assembly positions in the party's upcoming primaries, following extensive deliberations with key stakeholders.

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The decision was made after a meeting attended by the National Chairman, Moses Cleopas, presidential aspirant Peter Obi, and other senior party officials, according to a statement issued by the party's National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director.

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The screening committee, led by former Ebonyi State Governor, Sam Egwu, had spent nearly one week screening aspirants from across the country before submitting its report, which was commended by the party for its diligence and professionalism.

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The party has announced that all aspirants who purchased Expression of Interest forms will be allowed to participate in the primaries within their respective constituencies, citing time constraints and consultations with stakeholders.

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Successful aspirants will then proceed to the party's national secretariat to complete their documentation, pay nomination fees, and finalize their nomination formalities.

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The party has constituted and deployed primary election teams, comprising senior officials and experienced administrators, to all states to oversee and conduct the primaries in collaboration with local stakeholders and party leaders.

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Direct primaries for State Assembly positions will be conducted at the constituency level, while affirmations and primaries for other positions will take place at local government headquarters, in accordance with party guidelines.

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The final results of the primaries will be announced at the party's National Secretariat by the Selection Committee and the National Executive Committee.

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The NDC has encouraged aspirants to explore consensus arrangements where possible, in the interest of promoting party unity, stability, and democratic consolidation.

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The party has warned against violent, intimidating, or disorderly conduct during the primaries, threatening disciplinary action against anyone who undermines the credibility and peaceful conduct of the exercise.

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An appeal panel will be inaugurated to address complaints and grievances arising from the primaries, the party has announced.

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Although the party is operating under significant time constraints, which has made it impossible to fully deploy its proposed electronic voting and collation system for the primaries, the leadership has assured members that future primaries will be fully digitised.