NDC aspirants caution against forcing a senatorial candidate in Enugu

House of Representatives aspirants and key members from Nsukka Zone have sent a strong message to the Nigeria Democratic Congress. They do not want a senatorial candidate imposed for Enugu North Senatorial District.

They said that internal democracy, fairness, and transparency must guide how candidates are chosen for the three House of Representatives seats in the zone.

This warning came in a communiqué after a key meeting in Abuja on Tuesday. The stakeholders emphasized that the people of Nsukka will resist any form of political imposition.

The group pointed out that Nsukka Zone makes up about 56 percent of Enugu state’s voting population. They believe the party leadership should not ignore what the people want.

"Any unpopular imposition in Nsukka Zone could have grave electoral consequences for the party," the communiqué said.

The stakeholders also warned that many aspirants hoping for different positions under the NDC could pull back their support if the senatorial candidate is forced on them against the wishes of party members and grassroots supporters.

The aspirants rejected the idea of money politics in the zone. They believe that winning elections in Nsukka is about grassroots support, credibility, integrity, and competence, not just spending money or getting endorsements from the elite.

Looking back to the 2023 general elections, they noted how the Labour Party had a strong performance in Nsukka Zone. This helped to defeat a sitting governor during the senatorial election. They said this showed that Nsukka voters are politically independent and do not accept imposed candidates.

Despite their concerns, the aspirants reaffirmed their loyalty to the NDC. They expressed strong support for former Enugu State Governor, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, praising his leadership and commitment to building a strong, people-focused party in Enugu State.

They promised the party leadership their continued support if democratic principles are respected and the wishes of the people are honored.

The tension within the NDC in Enugu North shows a wider problem in Nigerian politics. This issue of imposition happens when powerful political figures or party leaders disregard the choices of grassroots members and impose their preferred candidates.

This practice has been a major cause of conflict within political parties across the country. It often leads to defections, the setting up of rival groups, court cases, and in severe cases, the complete breakdown of party organizations before general elections.