Obi, NDC leaders urge aspirants to accept primary results

The presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, on Wednesday appealed to aspirants who participated in the party’s recently concluded primary elections to accept the outcomes and support efforts to strengthen the party ahead of future elections. Obi made the appeal during the second National Executive Committee meeting of the NDC in Abuja, amid ongoing efforts by the party leadership to consolidate its structure and address concerns arising from the primaries. The NDC, one of Nigeria’s emerging opposition political platforms, recently concluded nationwide congresses, conventions and primary elections as part of preparations for upcoming electoral contests. Speaking at the meeting, Obi said internal competition was inevitable in a democratic process but cautioned against allowing grievances from the primaries to undermine the party’s broader objectives. “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,” Obi said. He stressed that the NDC’s rapid transition from registration to congresses, conventions and primaries within a relatively short period was unprecedented and demanded understanding from members. “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,” Obi said. The former Anambra State governor also apologised for the delayed commencement of the NEC meeting and expressed appreciation to members who travelled from different parts of the country to attend. “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,” he said. Obi urged members to look beyond internal contests and focus on building what he described as a credible alternative political platform capable of addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges. “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,” Obi said. He further disclosed plans by the party to embark on a nationwide engagement tour aimed at strengthening grassroots mobilisation and ex