The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has challenged the list of candidates published by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2027 State House of Assembly elections, alleging that some names were included without the party’s approval.

According to ARISE News, NDC National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas Zuwoghe, said in a statement signed by him that the party had completed its primaries and appeal process before submitting its final candidates to the electoral commission.

He alleged that 10 individuals who did not emerge through the party’s nomination process were later listed as NDC candidates in different constituencies in Anambra State.

The constituencies, according to the party, are Onitsha South 1, where Umennaajiego Jude Ezenwa was listed; Onitsha South 2, Akpotue Obinna Chibuike; Orumba North, Nwankwo Chiemerie; Anaocha 1, Maduagwu Eric K; Idemili North, Ngoebisi Obinna; Njikoka 1, Isintume Charles; Nnewi South 1, Nwachukwu Nonso; Nnewi South 2, Okeke Ifeanyi Akunne; Ayamelum, Nnonyelu Samson E; and Dunukofia, Azotani Chuks Francis.

Zuwoghe said the party had finalised its list after completing the necessary internal procedures and forwarded the names to INEC through the required channel.

He questioned how individuals the party said it neither selected nor endorsed came to be listed under the NDC banner.

The party chairman also alleged that similar concerns had emerged in other states, including Benue and Imo.

Zuwoghe called for the matter to be investigated and said the NDC was taking steps to establish how the names appeared on the published list.

He said the party would approach the courts if necessary, insisting that those who emerged through the NDC’s recognised nomination process should be the candidates representing the party.

The NDC maintained that it would pursue available legal avenues to protect the interests of its candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.