Leaders of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), on Monday night, assured party aspirants and members that the party was being built as an institution driven by inclusion, internal democracy and grassroots participation rather than personal patronage and transactional politics.
Speaking at the NDC Aspirants’ Dinner held in Abuja, party chieftain, Engr. Buba Galadima, urged members and aspirants to remain patient and committed to the party’s long-term vision, stressing that the NDC was laying a strong foundation for a new political culture in Nigeria.
Galadima said the party was focused on creating structures that would empower members from the ward level to the national through political education, mentorship and leadership development.
According to him, the party would soon unveil digital platforms that would guarantee transparent processes, including electronic voting during congresses and primaries.
“All you need is your registration card in the NDC. The NDC will provide the mentorship and guidance for you, workshops for youths and women, and political enlightenment across Nigeria,” he said.
He added that the party leadership deliberately delayed the rollout of some of its innovations because they wanted to ensure the systems were fully tested before implementation.
Galadima said unlike many political parties built around individuals, the NDC was determined to establish enduring institutions and leadership systems across the country.
“This party is being built as an institution, not a transactional vehicle for anyone. We want to build leadership systems in every state, senatorial district, local government and ward,” he stated.
He explained that the party’s structure would encourage broad participation and inclusion, noting that leadership positions would not be unnecessarily restricted.
According to him, once the structures are fully in place, members would no longer need to travel to Abuja seeking favours from party leaders.
“We want involvement and inclusion of everybody. Here in the NDC, it is monkey-work-monkey-chop,” he declared.
Galadima also appealed to aspirants contesting for various positions on the platform of the party to accept the outcome of the party’s selection process in good faith.
He noted that in some constituencies, as many as 17 aspirants were jostling for a single ticket, warning that only one candidate could eventually emerge.
“It is important for all aspirants to understand that only one person can fly the party’s flag in each constituency.
Those who do not get the ticket today should remain in the party and continue to struggle for its success,” he said.
The elder statesman blamed the tight political timetable imposed by the ruling All Progressives Congress-led administration and the National Assembly for some of the pressures currently being faced by the party.
He, however, expressed confidence that loyal members of the party would benefit when the NDC eventually takes power at the national level.
“When we form government, the national government is an elephant; everybody will have enough to eat,” he added.
