Fresh tensions have emerged within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) following a public exchange between the party’s leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, and prominent activist-turned-politician Aisha Yesufu, highlighting growing internal disagreements ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The dispute centres on the conduct of the party’s recent primaries and the allocation of elective positions, with both sides presenting differing accounts of efforts made to accommodate key political figures within the party.
Senator Dickson alleged that the NDC leadership had offered Aisha Yesufu the opportunity to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives as part of efforts to strengthen the party’s electoral prospects. According to him, the offer was rejected because she considered the position below her political aspirations.
The former Bayelsa State governor made the remarks while responding to concerns about internal disagreements that have surfaced since the conclusion of the party’s primaries. He maintained that the party had acted in good faith and provided opportunities for members willing to work within established structures and procedures.
Dickson argued that criticism directed at the party’s leadership could undermine broader efforts to build a credible opposition platform capable of challenging established political parties in the 2027 elections. He urged supporters of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to focus on strengthening the organisation rather than fueling internal divisions.
The controversy follows Aisha Yesufu’s withdrawal from the race for the Federal Capital Territory senatorial ticket. The activist, who had expressed interest in representing the FCT in the Senate, later pulled out of the contest, citing alleged irregularities in the party’s primary process. The ticket was eventually secured by another aspirant, Amanda Pam.
Since then, Yesufu has repeatedly voiced concerns about the conduct of the primaries and the direction of the party. In a series of public statements, she criticised Dickson’s handling of post-primary issues and questioned the leadership’s approach to party management.
According to her, the NDC leadership should be focused on promoting candidates and reassuring party supporters rather than engaging in public disputes. She also rejected suggestions that she failed to comply with party rules, insisting that she followed the procedures laid down by the party throughout the nomination process.
Political observers say the disagreement reflects broader challenges often faced by rapidly growing opposition movements, particularly those attempting to merge different political interests, personalities, and support bases under a single platform. The integration of politicians, activists, and former members of different political parties can create tensions over candidate selection, leadership influence, and strategic direction.
Analysts note that internal unity is especially critical for opposition parties seeking to present a formidable challenge in national elections. Public disagreements involving high-profile figures can affect party cohesion, weaken voter confidence, and distract attention from campaign messages and policy proposals.
The NDC, which has positioned itself as a major opposition force ahead of the 2027 elections, has attracted several influential politicians and supporters from across the country. However, the party’s ability to manage internal disputes and maintain unity among its diverse membership is increasingly being viewed as a key test of its readiness for the electoral contest ahead.
Political commentators say the coming months will be crucial for the party as it seeks to reconcile aggrieved members, consolidate support structures, and focus attention on its broader objective of providing an alternative political platform for Nigerians.
As preparations for the 2027 elections intensify, stakeholders within the NDC are expected to continue consultations aimed at resolving internal disagreements and preventing factional disputes from overshadowing the party’s campaign efforts and electoral ambitions.
