Obi, NDC Leaders Urge Aspirants to Accept Primary Results

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for Nigeria's National Democratic Congress (NDC), has appealed to aspirants from the party's recent primary elections to accept the outcomes and work towards strengthening the NDC ahead of future elections. Obi made this plea during the NDC's second National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja, as the party leadership focuses on consolidating its structure and addressing post-primary concerns.

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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.

The NDC, an emerging opposition platform in Nigeria, recently concluded nationwide congresses, conventions, and primary elections as part of its preparations for upcoming electoral contests. Obi acknowledged that internal competition is a natural part of democracy but cautioned against letting primary grievances derail the party's broader objectives. "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 stated.

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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.

He highlighted the NDC's unprecedented speed in transitioning from registration to primaries within approximately 90 days, a feat that even established parties find challenging. Obi urged members to exhibit understanding, patience, and sacrifice for the party's greater good. He also apologized for the meeting's late start and expressed gratitude to members who traveled from across Nigeria to attend, recognizing their commitment as vital to the project's survival.

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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.

Looking ahead, Obi encouraged party members to move beyond internal contests and focus on building a credible political alternative capable of tackling Nigeria's significant challenges, including insecurity, inadequate infrastructure, and weak public services. The NDC intends to launch a nationwide engagement tour to bolster grassroots mobilization and expand political education, aiming to connect directly with Nigerians and tailor policies to their needs.

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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.