The leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has appealed for calm and restraint after supporters of Peter Obi in Edo State staged a protest over alleged irregularities during the party’s primary elections, Business Day reports.
The protest broke out on Friday as the NDC conducted its nationwide primaries for the 2027 presidential, National Assembly, and State House of Assembly elections. Many Obidients, who recently showed interest in the party as a possible platform for their preferred candidate, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the conduct of the exercise.
Addressing journalists in Benin City, NDC chieftain Fred Owotorufa urged party members to remain peaceful, assuring them that the primaries would be concluded before midnight. He directed aspirants and supporters to return to their wards for the direct primary process.
“This process should be concluded before 12 midnight. It’s a selfless sacrifice, and we should all be prepared to sacrifice for our great nation and party,” Owotorufa stated. He maintained that the party provided a level playing field for all contestants and had no preferred aspirant.
Social Media Reactions
The protest has sparked heated discussions online, with many Peter Obi supporters expressing disappointment.
One user wrote: “We moved to NDC with hope, now same old rigging tactics. Peter Obi supporters will not accept this rubbish! #Obi2027”
Another commented: “NDC thought they can use Obidients and dump us. We are watching. This is not how to build a movement.”
However, some supporters called for patience, with one writing: “Let’s not scatter everything yet. Appeal for calm is good, but they must address the irregularities.”
The situation remains tense as the NDC tries to manage expectations among the influential Obi bloc ahead of the 2027 elections.
