The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has denied reports of internal division over its presidential ticket, which features Mr. Peter Obi and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as its candidates. According to the party's National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas, the leadership is solidly behind the ticket. The denial comes amid speculation that the party's national leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, was working against the ticket. Cleopas made the statement after a two-day meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC) in Abuja.
The NDC's presidential ticket has been touted as a combination capable of appealing to Nigerians across religious, ethnic, and regional lines. Cleopas defended the party's decision not to conduct a competitive presidential primary, saying it was a deliberate choice. He also pointed out that Dickson's decision not to pursue his own presidential ambition through the party demonstrated his support for the collective direction of the NDC. Dickson had reportedly rejected suggestions that he should seek the presidency under the NDC platform.
Cleopas questioned why Dickson would have declined the ticket if he intended to use the party as a bargaining instrument with the ruling party. He argued that if Dickson had wanted to play politics, he could have taken the presidential ticket and aligned with the All Progressives Congress (APC). The NDC National Chairman urged members to disregard what he described as propaganda aimed at creating divisions within its ranks. The party is prioritising consultations, internal cohesion, and the careful selection of campaign officials ahead of the 2027 general election.
The NDC has fixed October 20 for the inauguration of its Presidential Campaign Council. The council's inauguration is seen as a critical step in the party's preparations for the 2027 general election. According to Cleopas, the party is taking a careful approach to selecting campaign officials to ensure a strong showing in the election. The party's leadership is reviewing its electoral preparations, internal disagreements, and strategies for mobilising support for its presidential candidate and his running mate.
The NDC is also working to reconcile prominent party figures in Adamawa State, including former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Babachir Lawal, and the governorship candidate of the party in the state, Senator Aishatu Binani. The party has warned that disagreements among influential stakeholders will not be allowed to undermine its preparations for the election. The reconciliation efforts aim to promote internal cohesion and present a united front ahead of the election.
The party's national leadership has reiterated its commitment to offering Nigerians a political alternative in 2027. Cleopas urged members to remain focused and work towards a successful election campaign. The NDC's efforts to present a united front and careful planning for the election campaign are seen as crucial steps in its bid to make a strong showing in the 2027 general election. The party's strategies will be closely watched by political analysts and Nigerians in the coming months.
As the NDC prepares for the 2027 general election, the party's ability to present a united front and mobilise support for its presidential candidate will be critical. The inauguration of the Presidential Campaign Council on October 20 will mark a significant milestone in the party's election campaign. With careful planning and internal cohesion, the NDC aims to provide a strong challenge to other political parties in the election.
Key points
- The Nigerian Democratic Congress has denied reports of internal division over its presidential ticket, which features Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as its candidates.
