2027 elections: NDC gives Obi and Kwankwaso control of key campaign board nominations

The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has authorized its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to nominate several key officials for the party’s Presidential Campaign Council ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Under the arrangement, both candidates are expected to nominate Director General, Deputy Director General for North Korea, campaign spokesperson and deputy spokesperson, Head of New Media, Finance Director, Deputy Director of Finance and other key officials.

The decision was taken following consultations involving Obi, Kwankwaso, the party’s National Leader and other members of the NDC leadership.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Director Osa, revealed the development in a statement on Tuesday, explaining that the arrangement was intended to foster inclusivity and unity in the campaign structure.

The director said the proposed campaign council organogram had been prepared since August and forwarded to Obi and Kwankwaso for their contributions. He added that nominations had also been received from stakeholders throughout the country.

He stated, “The party leadership has given freedom to presidential candidates and their running mates to run for office.”

According to the spokesperson, the party will proceed with the announcement and inauguration of the campaign board after receiving input from the candidates.

The inauguration was originally planned for the first week of September but was postponed due to Obi’s travel schedule.

Also read: Anambra Government Challenges Obi Over 2027 Offer, Releases Documents on Alleged Salary Arrears

The CEO also revealed that his party had been preparing a campaign schedule since last August, but was still waiting for the completion of funding and fundraising which would be led by the presidential and vice presidential candidates.

Regarding the management of campaign finances, he said all funds collected would be deposited into the presidential campaign account and jointly managed by officials nominated by Obi and Kwankwaso and the National Treasurer of the NDC.

He explained that the Director of Finance and Deputy Director of Finance would work together with the State Treasurer to maintain good financial records and accountability.

According to him, parties are also required to submit their financial reports to the Independent National General Election Commission in accordance with the Election Law.

The director appealed to the NDC candidates to prevent their supporters and affiliated groups from getting involved in internal conflicts, and urged them to concentrate on the elections.

“We also call on all our candidates at all levels to restrain their supporters and support groups to focus on the need to win the election. There is no battle to be fought within the NDC. The common opponent that must be defeated is the ruling APC.

“We as a party are committed. The party has tried and is ready to do more. Candidates and their supporters are encouraged to do the same,” he said.

The NDC spokesperson further reminded the party’s candidates that they are contesting the elections under the party’s platform and should therefore remain focused on the campaign.

He said, “Our candidates need to keep their eyes on the ball and focused on winning.

“The NDC wants all our candidates at all levels to win a landslide victory, especially since they are not running as independent candidates.”