The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has disowned a purported Presidential Campaign Council announced under the name of “OK Movement,” saying the structure did not emanate from the party and should be disregarded by the public. This was stated in a release signed by the party's National Chairman, Senator Cleopas Moses. The NDC warned members, candidates, and support groups against creating structures in the name of the party without prior approval.
According to the NDC, only the party’s leadership has the authority to constitute and announce its Presidential Campaign Council. The party stressed that its candidates were contesting elections on the platform of the NDC and, therefore, remained subject to the authority and discipline of the party. This means that all candidates must appreciate that they are not running as independent candidates but as products of the party.
The NDC consequently directed that no individual, candidate, or support group should announce, constitute, or publish any campaign council, structure, or organ in the name of the party without prior approval from the National Working Committee (NWC). However, the party acknowledged the contributions of support groups to its political activities and encouraged them to continue mobilizing support for its mission.
The party cautioned support groups against presenting themselves as alternative structures or parallel organs of the party. The NDC also urged members and support groups to stop what it described as unnecessary public attacks against the NDC, stressing that disagreements should be handled through the party’s internal mechanisms. This includes referring matters to the party through appropriate internal channels for resolution rather than resorting to public attacks.
The NDC announced disciplinary action against John Ugulu, citing his conduct during the party’s primary election in Lagos State and repeated disregard for party authority. For this act of affront and his excesses during the primary election in Lagos State, and for his repeated disregard for party authority, the party is constrained to enforce disciplinary measures against Mr. Ugulu.
According to the NDC, Ugulu has been referred to the appropriate disciplinary organ of the party for necessary action in accordance with the provisions of the party’s constitution. The party said it remained focused on its issue-based campaign and reiterated its commitment to its political agenda for the country. This includes working with legitimate support groups while maintaining the distinction between such groups and the formal structures of the party.
The NDC welcomes even more support groups who identify with its mission to rescue Nigeria. The party remains committed to delivering a New Nigeria that is Possible. With this statement, the NDC aims to clarify its stance on unauthorized campaign structures and reaffirm its dedication to a structured and issue-based campaign.
Key points
- The NDC party disowned the 'OK Movement' Presidential Campaign Council, citing lack of authorization.
- The party warned members and support groups against creating unauthorized structures in the name of the party.
- Disciplinary action has been taken against John Ugulu for his conduct during the party's primary election and disregard for party authority.
