The campaign organization of Sam Odeh, an aspirant in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) primary election for the Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, says it is closely monitoring developments following the announcement of a “placeholder candidate” after the party’s primary election.
In a statement issued by the Head of Campaign and Strategy, Bakali Maina, the campaign expressed appreciation to thousands of party members, supporters, and stakeholders across the constituency for their support and commitment throughout the primary election process.
The campaign described the exercise as one that further demonstrated the leadership qualities, resilience, and determination of Sam Odeh, whom it said remained focused on providing effective representation and a new direction for the constituency.
According to the statement, the campaign was particularly encouraged by the intervention of the state chairman of the party, who responded to concerns raised by aspirants and stakeholders regarding the initial delegate-based primary format. The campaign noted that the intervention helped restore confidence in the process and reflected respect for democratic principles and the provisions of the Electoral Act.
Despite commending the party leadership, the campaign raised concerns over aspects of the conduct of the primary election. It alleged that party members, aspirants, and supporters gathered at the designated venue from the early hours of the day, only for proceedings to commence late in the evening.
The statement further explained that after consensus efforts failed, aspirants were informed that direct primaries would be conducted. However, challenges arose due to the curfew in Jos North Local Government Area and the sanitation exercise scheduled for the following day, leading to adjustments in the timetable.
The campaign claimed that although supporters reported to their designated voting centres across Bassa and Jos North as directed, election officials did not arrive at the appointed time, creating uncertainty among participants.
It acknowledged the intervention of the state party chairman, which it said eventually led to the continuation of the primary process.
According to the campaign organization, the turnout and level of support witnessed during the exercise suggested that Sam Odeh enjoyed significant backing from party members across the constituency. However, it expressed surprise that a placeholder candidate was eventually announced rather than the outcome of the direct primary process.
The campaign maintained that its confidence in Sam Odeh remains unwavering, describing him as a leader who demonstrated integrity, composure, and dedication throughout the exercise despite challenges encountered during the process.
While reaffirming its loyalty to the NDC, the campaign stated that it would continue to observe developments surrounding the primary election and the implications of the placeholder arrangement on aspirants who purchased nomination forms and actively participated in the contest.
The organization called on supporters to remain calm, focused, and committed to the broader objective of strengthening democratic institutions and advancing the interests of the constituency.
It also expressed optimism that the party would continue to uphold fairness, transparency, and due process in resolving all issues arising from the primary election process.
The statement concluded by reiterating the campaign’s commitment to the party and its belief that the pursuit of effective representation and democratic justice remains a long-term endeavor.