DLA defends disqualifying presidential aspirant, insists process was fair

The Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) has refuted allegations of unfair exclusion made by former presidential aspirant Abisayo Modupe, asserting that her disqualification from the party's presidential screening process adhered strictly to established procedures and guidelines.

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Abisayo Modupe also participated in the screening process but was not cleared by the appropriate organs of the party based on the outcome of the screening exercise.

The party, which recently selected Barrister Samuel Memeh as its candidate for the 2027 election, stated that Modupe's exclusion was based on the outcome of a screening exercise conducted in compliance with the DLA's constitution. The DLA clarified that Modupe was not the sole aspirant; three others also purchased nomination forms and participated in the screening, with only those meeting the prescribed requirements being cleared.

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It is noteworthy that no other aspirant at any level of the party has raised complaints regarding the transparency or fairness of the nomination and screening exercises.

According to Judith Aguenu, the DLA's Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Modupe participated in the screening but did not secure clearance from the relevant party organs. The party highlighted that no other aspirant has questioned the credibility of the nomination and screening exercises, accusing Modupe of bypassing internal dispute resolution mechanisms in favor of public accusations via social media.

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Rather than utilising available internal mechanisms to challenge her disqualification, Abisayo Modupe has chosen to make allegations against the party through social media.

The DLA emphasized its commitment to discipline, due process, and accountability, stating it would not permit personal grievances to tarnish the party's image or undermine its internal democratic processes. This situation arises amid heightened scrutiny of internal party democracy in Nigeria, where primary election disputes frequently lead to public controversy or legal challenges.

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The Democratic Leadership Alliance is an institution built on discipline, due process, accountability, and respect for constituted authority. We will not allow personal disappointment or individual ambition to undermine the integrity of our internal democratic processes.