Aisha Yesufu Accuses NDC of Electoral Manipulation
Aisha Yesufu, an activist and former senatorial candidate for the Federal Capital Territory, has leveled serious allegations against the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). She claims that the recent senatorial primaries were orchestrated to produce a predetermined winner, undermining the democratic ideals the party purports to uphold.
Concerns Over Transparency and Fairness
In a statement shared on her X account, Yesufu expressed her disillusionment with the primaries, emphasizing that the process lacked the transparency and equity expected in a democratic environment. She pointed out that party officials allegedly deviated from established protocols, thereby denying delegates the opportunity to make informed choices regarding the outcome.
Disappointment in the Primary Process
Having recently joined the NDC from the African Democratic Congress and announced her candidacy for the FCT Senate seat, Yesufu initially believed the party would ensure a fair contest for all aspirants. However, she now asserts that the revisions to the primary process have eroded its credibility and raised serious questions about true democratic values within the organization.
Allegations of Closed-Door Decision Making
Yesufu characterized the primaries as a façade of procedural fairness, arguing that the results seemed predetermined well before the delegates convened. She noted significant changes were made to the voting process without adequate consultation with stakeholders. The modified delegate-based approach, conducted at a central location instead of local government headquarters, further obscured transparency.
Violation of Internal Democratic Principles
The activist expressed her frustration regarding the secretive nature of the decision-making, which was allegedly carried out away from the public eye. She asserted that the process deviated from the principles of internal democracy and fell short of electoral law standards, stating that despite the party’s claims of fairness, the reality depicted a stark contrast to these assertions.
Ongoing Electoral Disputes in Nigeria
Yesufu’s remarks emerge amid a backdrop of contentious candidate selection processes for Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 general elections. Political party primaries have come under intensified scrutiny, with many individuals questioning the integrity of the nomination processes. Echoing her sentiments, actor-turned-politician and NDC leader Kenneth Okonkwo has also raised alarms regarding perceived manipulation within the party’s nominations.
Mixed Reactions and Future Intentions
Despite her dissatisfaction, Yesufu clarified that she does not intend to pursue a prolonged grievance process. Instead, she is focused on learning from the experience and moving forward with determination. Amid these developments, reports suggest that Amanda Pam might be the favored candidate for the FCT Senate seat. At the time of this report, the NDC had yet to release the official results of the primaries, nor had it publicly addressed Yesufu’s allegations.
The response on social media has been polarized. While some users echoed Yesufu’s concerns, questioning the authenticity of the party’s commitments to change, others critiqued her political strategy and potential electability. As the debate continues, the NDC has not officially responded to the claims but has previously assured its members of adherence to democratic principles and transparency in the electoral process.
