2027: NDC awaits Obi, Kwankwaso’s picks for campaign council

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has granted presidential candidate Peter Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, the autonomy to appoint key personnel for the party's presidential campaign council in preparation for the 2027 elections. According to a statement by the NDC's National Publicity Secretary, the two presidential hopefuls will select the director-general, deputy director-general (North), campaign spokesperson, deputy spokesman, head of new media, finance director, deputy finance director and other essential officials within consultation with the party leadership.

The NDC revealed this on Tuesday after discussions with Obi, Kwankwaso, and the party's national leader, Seriake Dickson, along with other top party officials. The party's National Publicity Secretary emphasized that the organization chart for the campaign council was finalized since August and submitted to Obi and Kwankwaso for their input.

Moreover, nominations from stakeholders across the nation had also been received. The spokesman further stated that the NDC leadership had granted the presidential candidate and his running mate the freedom to make the necessary nominations. The inauguration of the council, initially planned for the first week of September, was postponed due to Obi's travel schedule.

The NDC proposed a campaign timetable since August but has been awaiting the completion of funding and fundraising arrangements spearheaded by the candidates. Funds raised would be deposited into the presidential campaign account and jointly managed by the officials nominated by Obi and Kwankwaso and the party's national treasurer.

The finance director and his deputy would collaborate with the national treasurer to ensure transparency and accountability, with the party mandated to submit financial reports to the Independent National Electoral Commission in accordance with the Electoral Act. The NDC also appealed to all its candidates at various levels to encourage their supporters and campaign groups to concentrate on the need to win the elections rather than engaging in internal disputes.

The party remains committed and prepared to do more, urging its members and supporters to focus on defeating the ruling APC. The NDC candidates are encouraged to stay dedicated to the elections and should prioritize winning resoundingly, especially as they are not running as independent candidates.