The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has warned support groups against creating or announcing parallel structures in the name of the party without approval from its leadership.
The party said support groups were welcome to promote its activities but must not present themselves as alternative party structures or organs. The warning followed a publication credited to John Ugulu, leader of the OK Movement, announcing a Presidential Campaign Council.
In a statement on Saturday and signed by the National Chairman of the NDC, Senator Cleopas Moses, the party said it had dissociated itself from the campaign council announced by the movement. The party said the announcement did not come from the NDC and urged the public and media to disregard it.
According to the statement, only the recognised leadership of the party has the authority to constitute and announce a Presidential Campaign Council. “NDC candidates are not independents and remain subject to party authority,” the party said.
The NDC warned that no member, candidate or support group should engage in actions capable of undermining or damaging the party.
“Going forward, no individual or group is authorised to announce, constitute or publish any campaign council, structure or organ in the party’s name without prior approval from the National Working Committee,” it said.
The party said supporters could continue to operate but must work within the limits set by the party leadership.
“Support groups are welcome, but they should not present themselves as alternative party structures or parallel organs,” the statement added.
The NDC also advised members with grievances or disagreements to use the party’s internal channels instead of making public statements against the organisation. The party said it had referred Ugulu to its appropriate disciplinary organ over what it described as an affront to the party, alleged excesses during the Lagos State primary and repeated disregard for party authority.
The NDC said it remained focused on an issue-based campaign and its commitment to delivering what it described as a New Nigeria that is Possible.
