A renowned peace and development advocate from Delta State, Chief Mulade Sheriff, has demanded N5 billion in damages from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) over what he described as his wrongful substitution as the party’s candidate for the Warri Federal Constituency House of Representatives seat despite emerging winner of the party’s primary election.
Mulade, a human rights activist and the Ibe-Sorimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, expressed disappointment over the party’s decision to allegedly set aside the outcome of the primary election in favour of what he termed an “appointment or selection process” based on the purchase of nomination forms.
Speaking on the development, Mulade said he was shocked by the actions of the newly registered political party, which many Nigerians had viewed as a credible alternative capable of addressing the country’s numerous socio-economic and political challenges.
According to him, the decision to abandon the outcome of a duly conducted primary election raises serious concerns about the party’s commitment to democratic principles and internal party democracy.
“We were taken aback by the actions of the Nigeria Democratic Congress. Many Nigerians saw the party as a platform that could offer a new direction and help address the challenges confronting the nation. However, recent developments have created doubts about those expectations,” he stated.
The environmental rights campaigner noted that he holds the leadership of the party, particularly former Bayelsa State Governor and National Leader of the NDC, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, in high regard. He, however, alleged that certain interests may have influenced the party’s decision-making process.
Mulade maintained that no political party committed to democratic ideals should discard the outcome of a validly conducted primary election in favour of a candidate selected through other means.
He further lamented what he described as a recurring pattern of political parties disappointing Nigerians through actions that undermine transparency and accountability.
“Nigerians are tired of political parties that continue to betray public trust during election cycles. Political platforms should be driven by genuine ideologies and a sincere commitment to national development rather than personal or financial interests,” he said.
The Warri Federal Constituency aspirant called on the leadership of the NDC to review its decision and take steps to protect the integrity and credibility of the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to him, the party still has an opportunity to restore public confidence by respecting democratic processes and ensuring that the wishes of party members are upheld.
“I want to believe that the NDC is not intended to become another disappointment for Nigerians but a credible political vehicle capable of contributing meaningfully to the rescue and rebuilding of our country.
“The party must do the right thing and demonstrate its commitment to fairness, justice, and internal democracy,” he added.
Mulade’s demand for N5 billion damages is expected to further intensify discussions surrounding the controversy over the party’s candidate selection process in Delta State.
