Ogbonnia to Dickson: Resolve Enugu West NDC primary dispute
…References Electoral Act 2026
By Denis Agbo
A frontline aspirant for the Enugu West Senatorial District seat under the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. SKC Ogbonnia, has appealed to the party’s National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, to intervene in the ongoing nomination process and ensure strict adherence to the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.
In an open letter dated June 10, 2026, Ogbonnia expressed concerns that neither a properly conducted primary election nor a legally acceptable consensus arrangement has been finalized for the senatorial district.
According to him, although the party scheduled a primary election and his supporters participated in significant numbers, the exercise has yet to be officially concluded by the party leadership.
Ogbonnia, who described himself as a prominent contender with strong social, economic, political, and intellectual credentials, noted that his status had been recognized by influential party stakeholders, including State Leader Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo and Senatorial Zonal Leader Prof. Udenta Udenta.
Referring to Section 84 of the Electoral Act 2026, he emphasized that candidates can only emerge through duly conducted party primaries or through a consensus process supported by written agreements signed by all aspirants involved.
With the deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for submission of candidates drawing near, he cautioned that the nomination of any individual without following the prescribed procedures—including himself—could jeopardize the party’s candidacy in the election.
Ogbonnia also revealed that he had submitted several petitions to the party leadership without receiving any official response, warning that unresolved issues surrounding the process could trigger legal challenges and potentially affect the party’s eligibility.
He therefore urged Senator Dickson to take immediate action to ensure transparency, uphold due process, and prevent any electoral complications ahead of the submission deadline.