Seriake Dickson unveils unusual primary election strategy ahead of nationwide party contests
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has stirred major political conversations after announcing that only aspirants who emerge victorious in the party’s primaries will be required to pay nomination fees.
National leader of the party, Seriake Dickson, disclosed the decision while addressing party stakeholders ahead of the scheduled primaries. According to him, the move is aimed at encouraging wider participation and reducing financial pressure on aspirants seeking elective offices.
Dickson explained that contestants would first participate in the party’s internal primaries, while only successful candidates would proceed with documentation and payment processes afterward. The announcement has already generated mixed reactions among political observers and party supporters.
Supporters of the policy described it as a “people-friendly” strategy capable of attracting young politicians and credible Nigerians who may lack massive financial backing. Others, however, questioned how the party intends to fund its operations if unsuccessful aspirants are exempted from nomination fees.
The development comes as political parties across Nigeria continue preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections. Analysts believe the NDC is attempting to position itself as an alternative platform capable of challenging dominant political parties through unconventional reforms.
Meanwhile, the party has insisted that its Presidential, National Assembly, Governorship and State Assembly primaries will still hold nationwide on May 29 despite slight adjustments caused by the Eid-el-Kabir holidays.