Warri Federal Constituency House of Reps Primary Winner Sues NDC for N5bn

A Delta State-born peace and development advocate, environmentalist, and winner of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) primary election for the Warri Federal Constituency House of Representatives seat has filed a N5 billion damages claim against the party, alleging an unlawful candidate substitution process.

The human rights activist and Ibe-Sorimowei of the ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom said he was shocked by the party’s decision to allegedly discard the outcome of its primary election in favour of what he termed a selection or appointment process based on nomination form sales.

According to him, the development runs contrary to the democratic principles upon which the party was founded and threatens the credibility of its leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“We were taken aback by the newly registered party, the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC which many Nigerians considered to be a saviour and messiah to address and tackle the numerous challenges confronting our dear nation, Nigeria but little did we knew that NDC vehicle we boarded was mainly for what looks more like placeholders, gambling with Nigerians’ future,” he said.

The activist noted that he holds the party’s National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, in high regard but expressed concern that the leadership may have been influenced by financial contributions and proceeds from nomination form sales.

According to him, “NDC cannot adopt such an unspeakable level to ‘appoint’ a flagbearer when a winner has emerged from a lawfully and valid conducted party primaries.”

He further argued that Nigerians have become weary of political parties that undermine democratic processes and fail to respect the will of party members.

“It is imperative to state that Nigerians are tired of political parties who continue to gamble and trick Nigerians during every election circle, our political party will be purpose-driven with genuine ideologies to salvage and develop the nation for the betterment of its citizenry if there is an independent candidature,” he lamented.

He urged the party leadership to retrace its steps and uphold the outcome of the primary election if it hopes to remain credible and competitive in the 2027 polls.

The aspirant warned that the NDC risks damaging its reputation at a critical stage of its development if it fails to address the concerns raised by party members and stakeholders.

“I want to strongly believe that NDC vehicle for 2027 general elections is not intended as ‘one chance’ for many Nigerians, but a veritable political vehicle designed for salvaging our battered country,” he added.

The controversy is expected to reignite discussions around internal democracy, transparency, and candidate selection processes within emerging political parties as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.