Aggrieved members of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) in Edo South Senatorial District have rejected the party’s national reconciliation committee, saying the panel cannot resolve their complaints over disputed primary elections.
The group, led by Agbonaye Osazee Ofo, made its position known in a statement on Sunday, arguing that the reconciliation process would not address what they described as unfair treatment by the party leadership.
The members questioned the purpose of the committee, which includes Professor Pat Utomi and former politician Buba Galadima, saying reconciliation cannot replace a proper review of the disputed primaries.
They alleged that some aspirants and members lost what they considered legitimate mandates during the party’s internal electoral process. According to them, the first step should be to investigate the claims, examine relevant records and determine whether the party’s rules were followed.
The group said setting up a committee without giving it enough power to review disputed decisions could amount to an attempt to persuade aggrieved members to accept outcomes they believe were unfair.
They argued that genuine reconciliation must begin with finding out what happened during the primaries and listening to all sides involved in the disputes.
The members also questioned how the NDC could present itself as a democratic alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections if it fails to resolve allegations of internal problems within the party.
They called on the party leadership to allow the committee to independently examine the disputed primary elections and make recommendations based on evidence.
The group said the committee should be able to recommend changes to any decision found to have violated the party’s rules, including the restoration of mandates where there is proof of wrongdoing.
They also rejected any suggestion that members challenging the disputed outcomes were responsible for creating division within the party. Instead, they said unresolved grievances were a bigger threat to unity.
The aggrieved members maintained that party unity should not require members to abandon their demands for fairness and due process.
They further urged the NDC leadership to ensure that all aspirants and members involved in the disputes are given a fair opportunity to present their cases without pressure or intimidation.
According to the group, accepting disputed outcomes without proper review would weaken confidence in the party’s internal democratic process, especially as the 2027 elections approach.
The members said they would support reconciliation if it was based on facts, transparency and a genuine review of the issues that caused the disagreements.
They maintained that the appointment of respected individuals to the committee does not automatically resolve the problems surrounding the disputed primaries.
The group therefore urged the panel to act independently and examine the available evidence before reaching any conclusion.
They warned that any reconciliation process that simply asks aggrieved members to accept disputed decisions without addressing their complaints would fail to bring lasting peace.
The members said the NDC must first address claims of injustice within its ranks if it wants to convince Nigerians that it can provide credible democratic leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.