NDC Primaries Trigger Backlash as Obi Loyalists Lose Out, Analysts Warn of Electoral Consequences
By Wilson Orji
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
The outcome of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) primaries has sparked fresh debate within political circles, with analysts and party stakeholders expressing concerns that the exercise may have fallen short of public expectations regarding fairness, inclusiveness, and internal democracy.
Political observers argue that the primaries produced contrasting outcomes for supporters of the party's leading political figures, particularly former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and the party's presidential flag bearer, Mr. Peter Obi.
According to analysts, a significant number of aspirants associated with Senator Kwankwaso successfully secured tickets for the offices they sought to contest, especially across Kano, Taraba, Nasarawa, and other northern states where the former governor maintains substantial political influence.
In contrast, several aspirants identified with Peter Obi reportedly failed to emerge as candidates despite their popularity among grassroots supporters. Observers noted that many of the affected aspirants were drawn from the South-East, South-South, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), regions widely regarded as Obi's political strongholds.
One of the most discussed cases is that of activist-turned-politician Aisha Yesufu, whose inability to secure a ticket has generated widespread reactions among party faithful and supporters. Political commentators argue that the exclusion of high-profile and widely supported figures has raised questions about the factors that influenced the final outcomes of the primaries.
Analysts contend that the perceived imbalance in the allocation of party tickets could have implications for the NDC's electoral fortunes ahead of the 2027 general election. They argue that many supporters expected the party to reward loyalty, popularity, and grassroots appeal across all regions of the country.
According to political observers, the perception that Obi's loyalists were largely unsuccessful during the primaries could weaken enthusiasm among some segments of his support base. They warn that unresolved dissatisfaction may affect mobilisation efforts, volunteer participation, and voter turnout in key southern states if not properly managed.
Some commentators further noted that while Kwankwaso's political bloc appeared to consolidate its influence through successful ticket allocations in the North, Obi's supporters have voiced concerns that their interests were not adequately protected during the process.
The development has intensified calls for reconciliation and stakeholder engagement within the party. Observers believe the NDC leadership will need to address grievances arising from the primaries to avoid deepening internal divisions ahead of what is expected to be a fiercely contested 2027 presidential election.
While party officials have defended the primaries as being conducted in line with established guidelines, analysts insist that perceptions of fairness can be just as important as procedural compliance in maintaining party unity and voter confidence.
As preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum, political watchers say the ability of the NDC to reconcile aggrieved factions and maintain cohesion across its various political blocs may ultimately determine its effectiveness as a national opposition platform.
