The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has given Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso the freedom to pick key members of its 2027 presidential campaign council.
The party wants the presidential candidate and his running mate to nominate the director-general, deputy director-general (North), campaign spokesman and deputy spokesman. They will also pick the head of new media, finance director, deputy finance director and other officials. However, the candidates will consult the party leadership before making their choices.
Proper arrangements will promote unity within campaign
NDC National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, disclosed this on Tuesday. He spoke after consultations involving Obi, Kwankwaso, National Leader Seriake Dickson and other party leaders.
According to Director, the arrangement will promote inclusion and unity within the campaign. He said the party prepared the campaign council’s organogram in August. It later submitted it to Obi and Kwankwaso for their input. Stakeholders across the country have also submitted nominations.
Meanwhile, the party said it will announce and inaugurate the council after receiving the candidates’ nominations. The inauguration was initially planned for the first week of September. However, the party postponed it because of Obi’s travel schedule.
Campaign timetable and duties have already been laid out
The NDC also said it had prepared a campaign timetable since August. Still, it awaits funding and fundraising plans led by the candidates. Director said all campaign funds would enter the presidential campaign account.
Obi and Kwankwaso’s nominees would manage the account with the national treasurer. He added that the finance team would ensure transparency and accountability. The party must also submit its financial records to INEC under the Electoral Act.
The NDC also urged its candidates and supporters to avoid internal fights. Director said the party’s main focus should remain the 2027 elections.
“There are no battles to fight within the NDC. The common opponent to defeat is the ruling APC,” he said.
He also reminded candidates that they are contesting under the NDC, not as independent candidates.
“Our candidates should keep their eyes on the ball and focus on winning,” Director stated.
