NDC: John Akano Eti-Osa I Nomination Dispute Review Sought

• Youths in Politics NG has urged the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) to review its nomination process for the Lagos State House of Assembly, Eti-Osa Constituency I.
• Aspirant John Akano alleges he completed all nomination steps but was sidelined after a cancelled primary in favor of an unqualified individual.
• The advocacy group found sufficient grounds for a transparent review, emphasizing fairness, due process, and internal democracy.
• They recommend the NDC clarify its candidate selection method, ensure equal opportunities, and establish a transparent dispute resolution mechanism.
• The organization warns that such disputes could discourage youth participation in politics and calls on INEC to fulfill its statutory duties.

Failure to uphold due process and fairness can lead to significant disputes, potential litigation, and challenges to nominations, requiring legal intervention to resolve.

A significant challenge has been lodged against the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding its nomination process for the Lagos State House of Assembly, Eti-Osa Constituency I. The advocacy group, Youths in Politics NG, has formally urged the NDC leadership to conduct a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the selection of its candidate, following a complaint from aspirant John Akano. This intervention stems from a petition detailing alleged irregularities in the party's internal electoral exercise.

John Akano, the aggrieved aspirant, claims to have diligently followed all prescribed procedures, including purchasing the necessary expression of interest and nomination forms, successfully completing the nomination process, and securing clearance to participate in the primary election. He further asserts that he mobilized substantial support in anticipation of the contest. However, Akano alleges that after the primary was either cancelled or left unconcluded, efforts were made to present an individual who had not participated in the nomination process as the party's official candidate for the Eti-Osa Constituency I seat.

Youths in Politics NG, after reviewing the information and materials presented in connection with Akano's complaint, concluded that there were sufficient grounds warranting a transparent review. The organization emphasized that its involvement is not an endorsement of Akano nor an opposition to any other aspirant. Instead, its primary objective is to advocate for fairness, adherence to due process, and the upholding of internal democracy within the political party's selection mechanisms.

The advocacy group has outlined several key recommendations for the NDC to ensure the integrity of its nomination process. They stressed that if a primary election was legitimately conducted and a candidate emerged victorious, that result should be properly verified and respected, unless there exists a lawful basis for its nullification. Conversely, should the primary have been cancelled or deemed invalid, Youths in Politics NG insists that the NDC must clearly communicate the legal and constitutional foundation for any alternative method it intends to employ for candidate selection.

Furthermore, the organization called for all eligible aspirants to be afforded equal opportunities to participate in any fresh nomination process, aligning with the party's constitution, established nomination guidelines, and applicable electoral laws. They urged the NDC to make relevant records available to affected aspirants, including John Akano, and to provide them with a platform to present their evidence and be heard before any irreversible decision is made regarding the choice of candidate. A transparent mechanism for resolving any disputes arising from the primary outcome was also recommended, with a call for all parties to exercise restraint and pursue grievances through peaceful and lawful channels.

This case highlights the critical importance for lawyers advising political parties or aspirants to ensure strict adherence to party constitutions, nomination guidelines, and electoral laws during primary elections. Failure to uphold due process and fairness can lead to significant disputes, potential litigation, and challenges to nominations, requiring legal intervention to resolve.

Beyond the immediate dispute concerning the John Akano NDC Eti-Osa I nomination, Youths in Politics NG underscored the broader implications for youth participation in the political landscape. The group warned that excluding young aspirants after they have invested considerable resources and mobilized supporters for political contests could significantly discourage future youth engagement in politics. They argued that the controversy extends beyond a single individual, emphasizing that the manner in which political parties handle nomination disputes directly impacts young Nigerians' confidence in the overall political process.

While not opposing any individual who might ultimately emerge as the NDC candidate for the Eti-Osa Constituency I, the organization reiterated its demand for a process capable of withstanding scrutiny. They asserted that their position is rooted in a commitment to justice, internal democracy, the rule of law, and the increased political participation of Nigerian youths. The group also called upon relevant electoral institutions, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to perform their statutory responsibilities within the limits of the law, ensuring adherence to political party nomination guidelines.

Youths in Politics NG has pledged to continue monitoring developments surrounding the Lagos State House of Assembly nomination review and will speak out if legitimate concerns remain unresolved. The organization's stance reflects a broader push for accountability and transparency in Nigeria's electoral system, particularly as it pertains to the equitable treatment of aspirants and the fostering of a robust democratic environment.

Source: Original reporting via PUNCH