Fresh uncertainty has emerged around the 2027 presidential ambition of former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, following reports that he may reconsider his membership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) over alleged irregularities in the party's ongoing primary election process.
Sources within the party disclosed that Obi has expressed concerns over the conduct of the nomination exercise, amid allegations that party tickets and nomination forms were being allocated in a manner that lacked transparency and fairness.
According to party insiders, the controversy stems from claims that some aspirants secured party tickets through financial influence, while others who participated in the primaries were allegedly sidelined during the selection process.
The allegations have triggered growing discontent among aspirants and party members in several states, particularly Edo and Anambra, where disputes over the outcome of the primaries have continued to generate controversy.
In Edo State, some aspirants reportedly protested the issuance of multiple nomination forms for the same elective positions, a development critics say could expose the party to legal challenges ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Similarly, concerns have been raised in Anambra State over claims that certain candidates were favoured in the nomination process before the official conclusion and publication of primary election results.
Political observers say the development poses a significant challenge for the relatively new opposition platform as it seeks to strengthen its internal structures ahead of the next election cycle.
Analysts note that transparent candidate selection processes remain critical to the credibility and long-term viability of political parties, particularly those seeking to position themselves as agents of reform and good governance.
The unfolding dispute has also renewed debate over internal party democracy, with stakeholders warning that unresolved grievances could lead to defections, litigation and further divisions within the party.
Efforts to obtain an official response from the NDC leadership on the allegations were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report. However, party sources indicated that consultations were ongoing to address concerns raised by aggrieved aspirants and party stakeholders.
The latest controversy comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with aspirants across the country jostling for nominations and party endorsements. - 247UREPORTS.
