Former Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has hosted a dinner meeting for governorship and National Assembly aspirants of the National Democratic Congress, NDC, ahead of the party’s primaries.
The meeting was attended by the party’s presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, CON, while former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, was said to be unavoidably absent due to party engagements in Kano State ahead of the primaries.
In his remarks, Dickson thanked the aspirants for believing in the vision and future of the NDC, noting that the party had grown rapidly within a short period despite initial doubts from critics.
He described the NDC as one of the fastest-growing political platforms in the country and a cohesive opposition movement committed to building strong democratic institutions.
Dickson also commended party officials and members for their sacrifices, especially the Screening Committee led by former Ebonyi State Governor, Senator Sam Egwu, for conducting the screening exercise for aspirants.
He explained that the newly inaugurated Selection Committee, chaired by the National Chairman and supported by other party leaders, would review screening reports, consult widely with stakeholders and make recommendations based on competence, local dynamics and the overall interest of the party.
According to him, the party is encouraging consensus arrangements among aspirants where possible due to the short time before the elections, but will conduct democratic primaries where consensus cannot be reached.
Dickson reminded aspirants that only one candidate can emerge for each office, but assured them that the party would not abandon those who have invested their time, resources and trust in the movement.
He also disclosed that the NDC is compiling a database of aspirants and supporters who have contributed to the party’s growth, adding that they will be considered for roles in the presidential campaign structure and other strategic committees.
The former governor further revealed that the party is working towards introducing electronic systems for future primaries to improve transparency, credibility and efficiency.
He thanked the aspirants for travelling from different parts of the country despite insecurity and economic hardship, assuring them that all donations and support received by the party would be prudently and transparently used.
The meeting comes as the NDC prepares for its primaries and continues efforts to present itself as an organised opposition platform ahead of the elections.
Daily Times
