Renowned peace and development advocate, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, has demanded N5 billion in damages from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), following what he described as the party’s decision to disregard the outcome of its House of Representatives primary election for Warri Federal Constituency and replace it with an alleged selection process.
Mulade, a human rights activist and the Ibe-Sorimowei of the ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom, said he was shocked by the party’s action after emerging victorious in the recently concluded primary election conducted by the NDC in Delta State.
Speaking on the development, Mulade accused the party of abandoning democratic principles by allegedly substituting the winner of a validly conducted primary with another candidate through what he termed an appointment process influenced by financial considerations.
“We were taken aback by the actions of the newly registered Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), which many Nigerians had considered a potential vehicle for addressing the numerous challenges confronting our nation,” Mulade said.
“Unfortunately, what we have witnessed appears to suggest that the party has become a platform for placeholders and political gambling with the future of Nigerians.”
The Niger Delta activist said he held the leadership of the party, particularly its National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, in high regard, but expressed concern that the party’s leadership may have been overwhelmed by financial interests disguised as donations, contributions, and nomination form purchases.
“I respect and hold the leadership of the NDC, especially Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, in high esteem. However, it appears the leadership has become submerged by the influence of resources from certain individuals acting under the guise of donations and nomination form sales,” he said.
“It is unacceptable for a political party to appoint a flagbearer when a winner has already emerged through a lawfully conducted primary election.”
Mulade lamented what he described as the recurring pattern of political parties disappointing Nigerians during election cycles and called for greater adherence to democratic principles.
“Nigerians are tired of political parties that continue to gamble with and deceive the electorate during every election cycle. Political parties should be driven by genuine ideologies aimed at salvaging and developing the nation for the benefit of all citizens,” he stated.
He urged the leadership of the NDC to retrace its steps and restore confidence in the party by respecting the outcome of its primary election if it hopes to remain competitive ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The NDC is standing at a critical point in its history and has an opportunity to redeem its image across the country,” Mulade said.
“I want to strongly believe that the NDC is not intended to become a ‘one chance’ vehicle for Nigerians ahead of the 2027 elections, but rather a genuine political platform committed to rescuing our battered nation.”
The activist maintained that the party should uphold transparency, internal democracy, and the rule of law in its affairs to earn the trust of Nigerians.
