INEC Portal Shocker: Peter Obi's Name Reportedly Uploaded, NDC Leader Claims

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially announced the successful upload of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nomination portal. This significant development was disclosed by the party's National Leader in a statement issued on Monday, reaffirming the NDC's commitment to adhering to the electoral timetable and processes.

In addition to the candidate upload, the NDC has taken proactive legal steps by filing an appeal against a recent court ruling. Concurrently, the party has submitted an application for a stay of execution, both of which have been duly served on the INEC Chairman and the commission. This legal maneuver underscores the party's determination to navigate any challenges and ensure its participation in the upcoming elections.

The NDC further confirmed that it has been granted the necessary access to the INEC portal, facilitating the smooth uploading of its candidates' names in accordance with the established electoral schedule. The party leader noted that the names of both himself and the presidential candidate have already been successfully uploaded. The submission process for the vice-presidential candidate is slated for completion the following day, after which the process for other candidates will also commence.

The party vehemently maintains its status as a duly registered political entity that has consistently participated in all electoral processes to date. It emphasized that its primary elections were conducted under the direct observation and monitoring of INEC, ensuring transparency and legitimacy. The NDC asserted that the emergence of its candidates for various elective offices has been finalized, with only the administrative task of submitting their names to the electoral commission remaining.

Regarding the timeline for submissions, the NDC highlighted that it has until July 11 to upload the names of its National Assembly candidates and until July 17 for its governorship and State House of Assembly candidates, aligning perfectly with the INEC timetable. The National Leader took the opportunity to reassure party members and supporters, urging them to remain calm and expressing strong confidence in the party's ability to complete all candidate submissions within the stipulated timeframe.

Acknowledging some disagreements that arose during the party's primary elections, the statement confirmed that reconciliation efforts have already begun. These initiatives aim to foster unity among aspirants and stakeholders across the nation. Unsuccessful aspirants were specifically assured that they would be accommodated within campaign structures, committees, and other essential party activities, recognizing their crucial role as the grassroots strength of the NDC.

The National Leader concluded by extending congratulations to all NDC candidates, members, and supporters, while simultaneously issuing a call for the collective protection of Nigeria's multi-party democracy. Furthermore, the statement commended INEC for its professionalism in managing the party’s registration and other electoral processes. It also issued a plea to the commission, the judiciary, and security agencies, urging them to uphold neutrality in their roles to safeguard the country's democratic institutions.