A lawyer in Enugu State, Aroh Dominic, has warned the national leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, against announcing candidates for elective positions in the state, citing alleged irregularities in the party’s primary elections.
DAILY POST reports that the warning comes amid growing controversy over the outcome of the NDC primaries conducted last week, with attention now focused on the party’s national secretariat, which is expected to release the final list of candidates.
In a letter addressed to the National Chairman of the party on behalf of an NDC member, Idoko Chidozie, Aroh alleged that no primary election was conducted in Nsukka and Igbo-Eze South Local Government Areas for the House of Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate and governorship positions.
According to the lawyer, party members gathered at designated venues in both local government areas in anticipation of the primaries, but no party officials arrived to conduct the exercise.
He stated that although aspirants and party supporters were present, the absence of party officials prevented the conduct of a valid primary election.
Aroh further alleged that some aspirants later organised separate exercises, which officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, the police and other relevant agencies reportedly indicated would not be recognised.
The lawyer maintained that any attempt by the party to announce candidates for the affected positions would be challenged in court.
He also accused the party of planning to submit candidates despite the alleged failure to conduct primaries in the two local government areas.
The letter demanded an explanation from the party within 24 hours and warned that legal action would be instituted if the demands were not met.
Among the reliefs being sought are the refund of monies allegedly paid by aspirants, sanctions against those responsible for the alleged irregularities, and an order preventing any beneficiary of the process from being recognised as a candidate.
Meanwhile, the NDC national leadership has yet to authenticate any list of successful candidates from Enugu State.
One faction of the party in the state, led by Dr. Johnpaul Anih, had earlier released a list of winners following the primaries, while another faction is led by Ibuchukwu Obetta. The national leadership has not officially endorsed either list.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
