The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Kaduna State has formally demanded a democratic primary election to nominate its gubernatorial candidate for the 2027 elections, warning against any attempt to impose a candidate without due process. The state chapter, led by Publicity Secretary Tanko Marafa Tsoriang, issued a strong statement on Friday, condemning what it described as an undemocratic and dictatorial move by the national leadership during a meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday, May 21. The party insists that the process in Abuja was not a genuine reconciliation or consensus, but rather an imposition that violates the constitutional rights of NDC members in Kaduna State.
Tsoriang emphasized that the actions taken in Abuja directly contravene Section 87 (1–3) of the Electoral Act 2026, which guarantees political parties the right to conduct primaries through either consensus or direct election. He stressed that denying Kaduna State NDC members their statutory right to elect their flag bearer is not only undemocratic but also legally unsound. The party’s leadership is urging the national body to respect the electoral framework and allow for a transparent, monitored primary that reflects the will of the grassroots members.
The Kaduna State NDC further highlighted Section 36 of the Electoral Act 2026, which mandates the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to extend the nomination period for any state that fails to produce a validly nominated candidate on the primary election day. This provision, they argue, gives the party a legal avenue to rectify the situation and ensure a legitimate candidate emerges. The state chapter is calling on the national leadership to immediately write to INEC to request monitoring of the primary process, whether through consensus or direct election.
Tsoriang warned that any candidate uploaded to the INEC platform without going through a valid primary would not be acceptable to the majority of NDC members in Kaduna State. He stressed that such a move could jeopardize the party’s chances in the 2027 governorship race and damage internal party cohesion. The statement urged the national leadership to act responsibly and avoid a decision that could lead to legal challenges or widespread discontent within the party.
The Kaduna State NDC remains firm in its position that only a candidate emerging from a properly conducted and INEC-monitored primary can represent the party in the upcoming elections. The party is confident that adherence to the law will ensure fairness, legitimacy, and unity. As the 2027 elections approach, the Kaduna State chapter’s call for democratic processes underscores the importance of upholding electoral integrity within Nigeria’s political landscape.
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