The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) is facing a fresh internal crisis after multiple unverified lists of candidates for the upcoming governorship elections in Imo, Abia, and Anambra States began circulating widely on social media.
In a swift response on Friday, the party’s National Secretary, Barrister Ikenna Enekweizu, disowned the lists, describing them as fake and unauthorised. He warned members and the public to ignore them completely.
The Official Denial
According to the statement, the NDC has already submitted its authentic list of candidates to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) through the proper channel as required by the Electoral Act. Enekweizu said:
“The general public, especially members of the NDC in Imo, Abia, Anambra and other affected states, are hereby urged to disregard the lists of candidates widely circulating on social media… The said lists are fake and did not emanate from the party headquarters.”
He added that the party is investigating the source of the leaks, calling them “desperate attempts to sow ill will and create distractions within the party.”
Growing Tension and Suspicion
The circulation of conflicting lists has created confusion and distrust among party members in the affected states. Many are now questioning whether there is a deliberate attempt by internal factions to undermine the leadership or sabotage specific aspirants. The timing — just weeks before critical off-season elections — has heightened fears of deeper division within the relatively young opposition party.
The NDC had been positioning itself as a disciplined and credible alternative to the ruling APC. This latest development risks damaging that image and fuelling the perception of disorganisation at a time when unity is critical.
What This Means for 2027
As the party gears up for the bigger 2027 general elections, the ability to manage internal cohesion will be tested. With high-profile figures already associated with the NDC, any visible cracks could weaken its chances of building a strong, united front against the APC.
The leadership has tried to reassure members that the party remains committed to its goals, but the damage from the fake lists may take time to repair. For now, the confusion has left many supporters in Imo, Abia, and Anambra wondering who exactly will fly the NDC flag and whether the party can resolve this internal mess before the polls.
Source: Vanguard News
