The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has affirmed that Mrs. Epelle-Asemota Osayuki remains its duly nominated candidate for the Edo South Senatorial District, attributing discrepancies in the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) published list to an error by the commission.

Daily Trust had reported that Osayuki and one other candidate of the party are claiming Edo South senatorial ticket.

But in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja by its Director of New Media and Strategic Communication, Agada Theophilus, the party explained that while INEC correctly published Osayuki’s name and personal details, it mistakenly attached the photograph of another aspirant and the credentials of a third individual.

The NDC maintained that it duly submitted Osayuki’s name, passport photograph, and credentials to INEC in accordance with the Constitution and the Electoral Act, adding that the commission alone was responsible for publishing candidates’ particulars.

According to the party, the successful upload of her details onto the INEC portal served as proof of her formal sponsorship and urged the electoral body to clarify how the mix-up occurred.

The NDC also dismissed attempts to question Osayuki’s eligibility on ethnic grounds, calling it an orchestrated campaign to discredit her candidacy.

The party noted that Osayuki, a prominent member of the Obidient Movement, emerged victorious in the NDC primary. Her nomination, it said, reflects the party’s commitment to advancing women, youths, and persons with special needs.

While acknowledging that disappointed aspirants exist following the primaries, the NDC urged all members to refrain from actions capable of undermining the party. It noted that a national reconciliation committee has been inaugurated to resolve post-primary grievances and appealed to leaders for cooperation.

Rejecting allegations of candidate imposition by national leaders, the NDC clarified that state leaders supervised the primary elections, while the national leadership only stepped in to harmonize interests and resolve disputes that could not be settled locally.

The party called on all members to close ranks and unite ahead of the forthcoming elections. (Daily Trust)