The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) on Friday recorded peaceful turnout as its concluded its nationwide presidential, governorship, National Assembly and State Assembly primaries, recording what the party described as massive participation across the country.
The exercise, which commenced on Thursday and ended on Friday, witnessed large turnout of party members and supporters in several states as aspirants contested in direct primaries and affirmation exercises ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the NDC said the primaries were largely peaceful, transparent and well coordinated despite initial logistical concerns caused by the Eid-el-Kabir holidays and transportation challenges.
According to the party, officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, alongside security agencies including the Police and the Department of State Services, monitored the exercise across several locations to ensure compliance with electoral guidelines and maintenance of public order.
“The atmosphere at many voting centres was festive, with chants, solidarity songs, and jubilant supporters expressing confidence in the party’s vision and leadership.
“Party leaders described the successful conduct of the primaries as another major milestone in the steady growth of the NDC as a formidable national political movement committed to democratic participation, credible leadership, and national renewal” NDC stated.
The statement noted that reports from across the federation indicated orderly voting and affirmation processes, while stakeholders commended the conduct of aspirants and supporters during the exercise.
The party also highlighted its decision to allow aspirants to participate in the primaries before purchasing nomination forms, describing the process as a new approach aimed at deepening internal democracy and expanding political participation.
Under the arrangement, only successful candidates emerging from the primaries would proceed to purchase nomination forms.
Observers and supporters reportedly praised the initiative, describing it as one of the first of its kind in Nigeria’s political process.
The atmosphere at several voting centres was said to be festive, with supporters chanting solidarity songs and expressing confidence in the party’s leadership and vision.
The NDC leadership described the successful conduct of the exercise as another milestone in the party’s efforts to position itself as a major political force ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party added that its National Working Committee would conclude collation of results from the states before making official announcements from the national headquarters.
According to the statement, the turnout witnessed during the primaries reflected growing public interest in the NDC and could further strengthen the party’s momentum ahead of future electoral contests.
