Mulade Explodes Over Alleged Candidate Substitution, Threatens N5 Billion Lawsuit Against NDC
Says Party Has Betrayed Democratic Principles and Risks Becoming Another Political “One Chance” Vehicle
The political atmosphere surrounding preparations for the 2027 general elections has been thrown into fresh turbulence following a strongly-worded reaction by renowned Niger Delta activist and politician, Comrade (Chief) Sheriff Mulade, who has threatened legal action against the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) over what he described as an unlawful attempt to substitute his candidacy after emerging victorious in the party’s primary election for the Warri Federal Constituency.
Mulade, a respected human rights advocate and the revered Ibe-Sorimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, disclosed that he is prepared to seek N5 billion in damages against the party should it proceed with what he termed a blatant disregard for democratic principles and the will of party members.
From Hope to Disappointment
Speaking on the unfolding controversy, Mulade expressed profound disappointment over developments within the party, stating that many Nigerians had embraced the NDC as a fresh political alternative capable of rescuing the nation from the recurring disappointments associated with mainstream political platforms.
According to him, party faithful and supporters boarded what they believed was a vehicle destined for national redemption, only to discover that the journey may be heading in an entirely different direction.
“We entered the NDC believing it was a platform that would restore integrity, transparency, and democratic values to Nigerian politics. Unfortunately, recent developments suggest otherwise,” he lamented.
Drawing an analogy familiar to many Nigerians, Mulade likened the situation to a notorious “one chance” operation, where unsuspecting passengers are deceived and dispossessed after believing they were entering a legitimate vehicle.
Allegations of Financial Influence
The activist further alleged that the primary election outcome was allegedly being discarded in favour of interests driven by financial considerations.
According to him, reports indicating that party leaders may be considering alternative arrangements based on nomination form sales and financial contributions have raised serious concerns about the credibility of the process.
He maintained that democratic institutions derive legitimacy from the sanctity of electoral procedures and that any attempt to overturn the outcome of a valid primary election would constitute a dangerous precedent capable of undermining public confidence in the political system.
Mulade argued that Nigerians are increasingly weary of political organizations that preach reform while allegedly replicating the very practices they once condemned.
Respect for Dickson, But Concerns Remain
Despite his dissatisfaction with recent developments, Mulade was careful to acknowledge the stature and contributions of former Bayelsa State Governor and NDC National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson.
He noted that he continues to hold the former governor in high regard but expressed concern that influential forces within the party may have overwhelmed the ideals upon which the organization was founded.
The activist warned that political parties seeking to gain the trust of Nigerians ahead of the 2027 elections must demonstrate unwavering commitment to fairness, transparency, and internal democracy.
A Test of Credibility for NDC
Political observers have described the controversy as an early test of the NDC’s institutional integrity and capacity to distinguish itself from established parties often accused of manipulating internal processes.
Analysts argue that how the party handles the matter could significantly influence public perception and determine whether it emerges as a credible political force or merely another participant in Nigeria’s troubled democratic experiment.
For many supporters, the dispute raises fundamental questions about whether internal party democracy can truly thrive in a political environment where influence, patronage, and financial power often overshadow merit and popular mandate.
Call for Immediate Reversal
Mulade urged the leadership of the NDC to retrace its steps and uphold the outcome of the primary election, insisting that a candidate who emerged through a lawful and transparent process should not be replaced through administrative maneuvering.
He emphasized that the party still has an opportunity to redeem its image and reaffirm its commitment to democratic principles.
According to him, Nigerians are watching closely, and the decisions taken in the coming days will either strengthen or diminish the party’s credibility ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Political Implications Ahead of 2027
The dispute is expected to generate significant interest across the Niger Delta and beyond, particularly within Warri Federal Constituency where Mulade enjoys considerable grassroots support owing to his longstanding advocacy on environmental justice, human rights, youth development, and regional empowerment.
Should the matter proceed to court, it could become one of the earliest major legal battles shaping the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
As stakeholders await the official response of the NDC leadership, many Nigerians will be keenly observing whether the party chooses reconciliation, adherence to democratic norms, or a path that may trigger prolonged legal and political consequences.
Source: EgbemaVoice News
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Author: Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
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