Primary election fallout: NDC names key leaders in South East

The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has identified key political leaders serving as caucus heads across the South-East geopolitical zone, describing them as central figures in the party’s consultation and consensus-building process ahead of the just-concluded primary elections.

In a statement issued on Friday by the party’s National Secretary, Barrister Ikenna Alex-Morgan Enekweizu, the NDC said its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, joined the party with an established leadership structure comprising respected elder statesmen and political leaders who coordinate party affairs in their respective states.

According to the party, the caucus leaders in the region are former NDDC Board Chairman, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, for Abia State; former Governor, Minister and Senator, Dr. Sam Egwu, for Ebonyi State; former Governor and former PDP National Chairman, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, for Enugu State; and former Governor and Minister, Chief Achike Udenwa, for Imo State. In Anambra State, the party said the process is coordinated by Peter Obi’s team.

The NDC explained that the caucus leaders were tasked with conducting stakeholder consultations, building consensus and making recommendations based on political realities in their states, while grassroots leaders and other stakeholders also participated in the process.

“These leaders were entrusted with conducting stakeholder consultations, building consensus, and making recommendations to the party based on their understanding of the peculiar political dynamics in their respective states.

“In addition, each state has recognized stakeholders and grassroots leaders who participate in consultations and make recommendations regarding party affairs,” part of the statement read.

The party stressed that aspirants who disagreed with recommendations made by stakeholders or caucus leaders were free to contest through the party’s democratic process, adding that such opportunities were provided during the primaries.

It also denied imposing candidates on any constituency or state, maintaining that the National Secretariat only received aspirants and directed them to engage with caucus leaders, stakeholders and party members in their respective states.

The party called on caucus leaders, state chairmen, stakeholders and other leaders to engage aggrieved aspirants and members to ensure the continued growth and stability of the NDC.