A chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Kaduna State, Ibrahim Muhammad, has urged party leadership to respect the existing primary election process for the 2027 governorship race, warning against any attempt to unilaterally alter it without due constitutional and regulatory compliance. In a statement released on Friday in Kaduna, Muhammad emphasized that the integrity of the party’s internal democratic procedures must be upheld to maintain fairness and member confidence. He stressed that the selection of a candidate is not just an administrative task but a cornerstone of political legitimacy within the party.
Muhammad highlighted growing concerns among some NDC members who are demanding a primary election, citing the absence of a consensus candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial contest. He acknowledged these concerns but argued that any change to the already established primary process must follow strict legal and procedural guidelines. According to him, the NDC Constitution, applicable electoral laws, and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regulations must all be strictly adhered to before any modification can be considered valid.
He specifically pointed out that INEC’s current regulations require parties to formally notify the commission and provide clear reasons for changing the type of primary previously submitted. Any deviation from this process, he warned, could lead to serious questions about legality and undermine the party’s credibility. A unilateral decision to alter the primary system, Muhammad said, would not only breach constitutional protocols but also risk eroding trust among aspirants and party members.
The NDC chieftain called for fairness, transparency, and respect for democratic principles throughout the process. He insisted that every candidate and party member deserves assurance that the rules will remain consistent and impartial. Muhammad appealed to key figures including Henry Seriake Dickson, Peter Obi, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the Kaduna State leadership, and other stakeholders to carefully review the situation and avoid actions outside the party’s constitutional framework.
“Kaduna State is too important to the political development of the NDC for an avoidable internal dispute to undermine the confidence of its members and supporters,” Muhammad stated. He added that a transparent and lawful primary process would ultimately strengthen the party, regardless of which aspirant emerges as the nominee. His appeal underscores the need for unity and adherence to democratic norms as the party prepares for upcoming elections.
With the 2027 governorship race approaching, the NDC’s ability to manage its internal processes with integrity will be crucial in building public trust and consolidating support across the state.
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