The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has distanced itself from a list of purported candidates for elections in Imo, Abia and Anambra states currently making the rounds on social media, describing the documents as fake and unauthorised.
The party urged its members and the general public to ignore the lists, insisting that they did not originate from its national headquarters and should not be regarded as authentic.
In a statement issued on Friday by the party’s National Secretary, Ikenna Enekweizu, the NDC said it had already submitted the genuine list of candidates for the affected states to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) through the procedures provided by the Electoral Act.
According to the party, the circulation of the alleged candidates’ lists was a deliberate attempt by individuals it described as “mischief makers” to create confusion and distract the party from its activities ahead of the elections.
“The general public, especially members of the NDC in Imo, Abia, Anambra and other affected states, are hereby urged to disregard the lists of candidates widely circulating on social media as the authentic lists of our party’s candidates from the aforementioned states,” the statement said.
“The said lists are fake and did not emanate from the party headquarters.”
The NDC maintained that the only valid candidates are those officially submitted to INEC through the channels recognised by law.
Enekweizu alleged that those behind the circulation of the documents were acting in bad faith and were determined to undermine the party’s preparations in the affected states.
He said the party had commenced investigations to identify the source of the purported lists and determine how they found their way into the public space.
“Such lists in circulation are being peddled by mischief makers and those who do not wish the party well,” he said.
“However, the party is investigating the sources of such fabrications and leakages as they are desperate attempts to cause ill will and distractions within the party.”
The statement comes amid heightened political activities in several states as parties prepare for forthcoming elections and seek to put their structures in order.
Political parties often face internal disagreements during the process of selecting candidates for elective positions. In some cases, disputes over party primaries and nominations have led to the circulation of conflicting lists, legal battles and prolonged crises.
The NDC’s latest clarification appears aimed at preventing confusion among its supporters and ensuring that members rely only on official communication from the party leadership.
By publicly rejecting the circulating documents, the party hopes to reassure members that its internal processes remain intact and that no unauthorised persons can determine who flies its flag.
The NDC further highlighted its commitment to unity within its ranks despite what it described as attempts by opponents and troublemakers to sow division.
It urged party faithful in Imo, Abia and Anambra states to remain calm, focused and loyal to the party’s leadership while awaiting further directives through official channels.
The party also advised supporters to verify information before sharing it on social media, warning that the spread of false information could create unnecessary tension and mislead party members.
For the NDC, the controversy surrounding the alleged candidates’ lists presents an early test of its internal communication system and ability to maintain discipline among members.
Despite the development, the party insisted that it remains focused on its broader mission of providing Nigerians with an alternative political platform and advancing its programmes across the country.
It assured members that the leadership would continue to protect the party’s integrity and ensure that all activities relating to candidate nominations comply with the Electoral Act and guidelines issued by INEC.
As preparations for the elections continue, the NDC urged its supporters to disregard rumours, avoid speculation and obtain information only from recognised party officials and verified communication channels.