Peter Obi NDC primary disputes take centre stage as the presidential candidate urges aspirants to accept results and strengthen the party
The presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has appealed to aspirants who participated in the party’s recently concluded primary elections to accept the outcomes and work together to strengthen the organisation ahead of future electoral contests.
Also read: Peter Obi picks Kwankwaso as running mate
Speaking on Wednesday during the second National Executive Committee meeting of the National Democratic Congress in Abuja, Obi urged members to place the party’s long-term objectives above personal disappointment arising from the primaries.
The meeting comes as the party intensifies efforts to consolidate its structures following nationwide congresses, conventions and primary elections conducted as part of preparations for upcoming political contests.
Obi acknowledged that competition and disagreements are inevitable in any democratic process but warned against allowing internal disputes to derail the party’s broader mission.
“I want to sincerely appeal to all our aspirants, those who participated in our primaries, to accept the outcomes in good faith,” Obi said.
“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.”
Highlighting the party’s rapid organisational growth, Obi described the completion of congresses, conventions and primaries within roughly 90 days as a remarkable achievement.
“We have done congresses, we have done conventions, and we have done primaries all within about 90 days. Even established parties struggle with this,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor also apologised for the delayed commencement of the NEC meeting and thanked members who travelled from across the country to attend.
Obi urged party faithful to focus on building a credible alternative political platform capable of addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges, including insecurity, poor infrastructure and weak public services.
“We should not be overly consumed by today’s internal processes. We must look ahead to tomorrow,” he said.
“This party will be different. When given the opportunity, we will demonstrate leadership that is inclusive, compassionate, and accountable.”
As part of efforts to deepen grassroots engagement, Obi announced plans for a nationwide tour aimed at expanding political education and strengthening mobilisation across the federation.
“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,” he said.
The appeal over Peter Obi NDC Primary Disputes came amid wider calls for reconciliation within the party following the conclusion of internal elections.
National Chairman Moses Cleopas described the party’s growth as extraordinary, attributing its progress to collective commitment and determination.
“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.
Former Seriake Dickson also urged unsuccessful aspirants not to view electoral setbacks as the end of their political ambitions.
“We must not see internal competition as division. Those who did not win today should remain hopeful; tomorrow still holds opportunities,” Dickson said.
A significant outcome of the meeting was the adoption of a resolution to deepen internal reforms, including plans to introduce electronic voting for future congresses and primary elections.
Party leaders said the proposed digital system would improve transparency, reduce disputes and modernise internal democratic processes.
The meeting ended with renewed calls for unity, discipline and collective responsibility, with leaders urging members to move beyond the primaries and focus on building a stronger opposition platform.
Reiterating the importance of cohesion, Obi said the party’s future success would depend on members’ willingness to make sacrifices and remain committed to a common vision.
Also read: Peter Obi denies avoiding Atiku ahead 2027 election
“No political movement succeeds without sacrifice,” he said. “If we remain united, focused, and disciplined, we will build something truly different for Nigeria.”
