Obi and NDC Leaders Ask Aspirants to Accept Primary Results

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), asked aspirants from the party's recent primary elections to accept the results and support the party's growth ahead of future elections. He spoke during the NDC's second National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja. The party is working to strengthen its structure and handle concerns raised after the primaries.

The NDC, one of Nigeria's emerging opposition parties, recently held nationwide congresses, conventions, and primary elections as part of its preparations for upcoming elections. Obi mentioned that competition within the party is a normal part of democracy but warned against letting any dissatisfaction from the primaries affect the party's goals.

"I want to sincerely appeal to all our aspirants, those who participated in our primaries, to accept the outcomes in good faith. In every democratic process, there will be winners and there will be others who did not succeed. What matters most is what we do after the process," Obi said.

He pointed out that the NDC's quick move from registration to congresses, conventions, and primaries in a short time is something unique and requires understanding from party members. "We have done congresses, we have done conventions, and we have done primaries all within about 90 days. Even established parties struggle with this. We must therefore show understanding, patience, and sacrifice for the greater good of the party," Obi added.

Obi also apologized for the late start of the NEC meeting and thanked members who traveled from various parts of Nigeria to attend. "I most sincerely apologise that this meeting started late. I appreciate all of you who came from different parts of Nigeria to be here. Your commitment is what keeps this project alive," he said.

He urged everyone to focus on creating what he called a credible alternative political platform to tackle Nigeria's pressing issues. "We should not be overly consumed by today’s internal processes. We must look ahead to tomorrow. This party will be different. When given the opportunity, we will demonstrate leadership that is inclusive, compassionate, and accountable," Obi stated.

He also shared plans for a nationwide tour aimed at boosting grassroots mobilization and enhancing political education. Obi said, "We will soon begin visits to all states of the federation. We do not want members always coming to Abuja; we will go to them. We must engage directly with Nigerians, understand their realities, and build our policies around their needs."

Obi mentioned key national issues, such as insecurity, poor infrastructure, and weak public services. He made it clear that detailed political messages will come later during the campaign period. "We know the challenges facing our country, security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, but this is not yet campaign time," he added.

Moses Cleopas, the National Chairman of the NDC, described the party's growth as impressive, crediting it to collective effort and divine support. "We are witnessing something unusual. Within a very short time, this party has moved from registration to conventions and primaries. It is not by human effort alone; there is a higher hand guiding this process," Cleopas said.

He compared the party's journey to "Noah’s Ark," saying it has survived tough times and will continue to serve Nigeria. "This party is like Noah’s Ark. It has been preserved through turbulent waters, and it will not fail Nigeria," he added. Cleopas praised members and aspirants for their peaceful conduct during the primaries despite the competition.

Seriake Dickson, NDC National Leader and former Bayelsa State Governor, said the party has grown against expectations and is still expanding its reach. "From day one, we were not expected to survive. But we have conducted congresses, primaries, and conventions, and we are still standing strong. That alone is a testimony," he said.

Dickson encouraged those who felt upset about the primaries to remain loyal to the party. He said, "We must not see internal competition as division. Those who did not win today should remain hopeful; tomorrow still holds opportunities." The NEC meeting also agreed to push for internal reforms, including plans for electronic voting in future elections.

Party leaders said this step aims to enhance transparency and reduce conflicts within the party's democratic processes. "We are committed to introducing electronic voting for all our internal elections," the leadership stated. "Nigeria must not lag behind in electoral innovation, and this party will lead the way."

They explained that while manual voting is still needed for now, they are working towards a fully digital voting system. The meeting wrapped up with strong calls for unity, discipline, and shared responsibility. Party leaders urged members to move past the primaries and focus on strengthening the party for future elections.

In closing, Obi emphasized that unity and sacrifice are key to the party's success. "No political movement succeeds without sacrifice. If we remain united, focused, and disciplined, we will build something truly different for Nigeria."