NDC Sets Guidelines, Warns Aspirants Against Violence

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has warned aspirants and supporters against violence, intimidation, and threats during its forthcoming primaries as it unveiled guidelines for the nationwide exercise.

The party said strict disciplinary measures would be imposed on any individual or group found engaging in acts capable of undermining the credibility and peaceful conduct of the primaries.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the party said the decision followed the adoption of the report of the Screening Committee chaired by former Ebonyi State Governor, Sam Egwu.

The statement said the meeting, attended by the party’s National Chairman, presidential aspirant Peter Obi, and other senior officials, reviewed the screening exercise and approved modalities for the primaries.

“The NDC maintains a zero-tolerance stance on violence, intimidation, threats, and disorderly conduct,” the party stated.

It added that strict disciplinary measures would be taken against any individual or group found engaging in acts capable of undermining the credibility and peaceful conduct of the primaries.

The party disclosed that all aspirants who purchased Expression of Interest forms would be allowed to participate in the primaries within their constituencies.

It added that successful aspirants would proceed to the National Secretariat for documentation, payment of nomination fees, and completion of other formalities.

The NDC also announced the deployment of primary election teams to all states to supervise the exercise in collaboration with local stakeholders.

It explained that State Assembly primaries would be conducted through direct voting at the constituency level, while governorship and other categories would hold at local government headquarters.

“Final results will be announced at the National Secretariat by the Selection Committee and the NEC,” the statement added.

The party encouraged consensus arrangements where possible in the interest of unity and stability.

It further reiterated its commitment to inclusiveness, especially youth and women participation.

The statement added that an Appeal Panel would be inaugurated to address grievances arising from the exercise.

The party said future primaries would be fully digitised to enhance transparency and accountability.

It called on aspirants, security agencies, and INEC to ensure peaceful and credible primaries nationwide.