Three aspirants for the House of Representatives seat in Ojo Federal Constituency, Lagos State, on the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) platform have rejected the outcome of the party’s primary election, alleging that no valid poll was conducted and a candidate was imposed.
Led by Godwin Ezeoke, the aggrieved aspirants petitioned the NDC national leadership, calling for the cancellation of the result and the conduct of a fresh primary. In a petition addressed to the National Chairman through the National Secretary, they described the process as “unprecedented, unlawful, unconstitutional, undemocratic, and arbitrary.” Ezeoke, represented by legal practitioner C.C. Iloabanafo, alleged that party officials announced a winner despite the absence of an actual primary election. Other aspirants, Ifeanyi Okparaugo and Ola Ogunlana, corroborated the claim, saying no electoral officials were present at the venue and there was no voting process.
The aspirants raised concerns about the venue being funded by a fellow aspirant rather than the party, questioning the credibility of the exercise. They warned that the development could lead to litigation, reputational damage and electoral sanctions for the party. NDC spokesperson Osa Director said a reconciliation committee had been set up to address the grievances. He expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved within 24 to 48 hours.
The protest highlights internal wrangling within the NDC as parties prepare for future elections. Such disputes, if not properly managed, could weaken the party’s chances in the constituency. The Ojo Federal Constituency remains a strategic area, and the outcome of the primary will be closely watched by political observers in Lagos State. The development underscores the need for transparent and credible internal democracy within political parties to avoid post-primary crises.
