Key Takeaways
- The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) confirms Mrs Epelle-Asemota Osayuki as its candidate for the Edo South Senatorial District.
- Discrepancies in the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) published list are attributed to an error by the commission.
- The party dismisses attempts to question Osayuki’s eligibility on ethnic grounds.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has reaffirmed that Mrs Epelle-Asemota Osayuki remains its duly nominated candidate for the Edo South Senatorial District, citing an error by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the reason for discrepancies in the published list. This comes after reports surfaced that Osayuki and another candidate of the party were both claiming the Edo South senatorial ticket.
In a statement, the NDC explained that while INEC correctly published Osayuki’s name and personal details, it mistakenly attached the photograph of another aspirant and the credentials of a third individual. The party maintained that it had duly submitted Osayuki’s name, passport photograph, and credentials to INEC in accordance with the Constitution and the Electoral Act, emphasizing that the commission alone was responsible for publishing candidates’ particulars.
Electoral Process and Party Unity
The successful upload of Osayuki’s details onto the INEC portal served as proof of her formal sponsorship, and the NDC urged the electoral body to clarify how the mix-up occurred. The party also dismissed attempts to question Osayuki’s eligibility on ethnic grounds, calling it an orchestrated campaign to discredit her candidacy. As a prominent member of the Obidient Movement, Osayuki emerged victorious in the NDC primary, with her nomination reflecting the party’s commitment to advancing women, youths, and persons with special needs.
The NDC acknowledged that disappointed aspirants exist following the primaries and urged all members to refrain from actions capable of undermining the party. A national reconciliation committee has been inaugurated to resolve post-primary grievances, and the party appealed to leaders for cooperation. The NDC rejected allegations of candidate imposition by national leaders, clarifying that state leaders supervised the primary elections, while the national leadership only stepped in to harmonize interests and resolve disputes that could not be settled locally.
Why This Matters
The NDC’s affirmation of Osayuki as its candidate and its call for unity among members are crucial ahead of the forthcoming elections, as the party seeks to present a strong and united front. By emphasizing its commitment to advancing women, youths, and persons with special needs, the NDC aims to appeal to a broader electorate and promote a more inclusive political landscape in Nigeria.