NDC yet to officially announce primary results, says collation ongoing

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…Massive turnout recorded nationwide during primaries, affirmations

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By Henry Umoru

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ABUJA — The National leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has said it is still collating results from states following the conclusion of its nationwide primaries and affirmation exercises.

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The party disclosed that official announcements would be made from its national headquarters after the collation process is completed.

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The NDC, in a statement on Friday by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said it had successfully concluded its presidential, governorship, National Assembly and State Assembly primaries across the country, with what it described as massive participation by members and supporters.

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According to the statement, the exercise, which commenced on Thursday, May 28 and ended Friday, May 29, witnessed large turnout of party faithful in various states during the direct primaries.

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The party said the development underscored the growing popularity and grassroots acceptance of the NDC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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The statement read: “Despite initial logistical concerns caused by the Eid-el-Kabir holidays and transportation challenges across the country, the exercise proceeded smoothly and peacefully in most states, with enthusiastic participation from party faithful.

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“Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, alongside security agencies, including the Police and DSS, monitored the exercise across several locations to ensure compliance with electoral guidelines and maintain public order.

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“Reports from across the federation indicated that voting and affirmation processes were orderly, transparent and well coordinated, while party stakeholders commended the maturity displayed by aspirants and supporters throughout the exercise.”

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The party also noted that stakeholders and observers praised its decision to allow aspirants participate in the primaries before purchasing nomination forms, describing the arrangement as a first in Nigeria’s political space.

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According to the NDC, nomination forms would only be sold to successful candidates who emerged from the primaries.

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The statement added: “Supporters noted that the approach introduced by the NDC was aimed at deepening internal democracy and creating a more inclusive platform for participation.

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“The atmosphere at many voting centres was festive, with chants, solidarity songs and jubilant supporters expressing confidence in the party’s vision and leadership.”

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The party leadership described the conduct of the exercise as another milestone in the growth of the NDC as a national political movement committed to democratic participation and credible leadership.

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“The National Working Committee of the party is expected to conclude collation of results from the states before making official announcements from the national headquarters,” the statement added.

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