Obi, Kwankwaso Given Free Hand to Nominate Principal Campaign Officers
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) says preparations are nearing completion for the inauguration of its Presidential Campaign Council, with its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, authorised to nominate key officers.
The party said the positions include Director-General, Deputy Director-General (North), campaign spokesman and deputy, Head of New Media, Finance Director and Deputy Finance Director.
According to the NDC, the proposed structure was developed in August after meetings involving Obi, Kwankwaso, National Leader Senator Henry Seriake Dickson and other party leaders.
The party said a full organogram was prepared and forwarded to Obi and Kwankwaso for their input, while nominations and contributions were also received from stakeholders across the country.
NDC National Publicity Secretary Osa Director said the two candidates had been given a free hand to make the outstanding nominations.
The party said campaign finances would be jointly managed by the Finance Director, deputy and National Treasurer, with proceeds paid into a dedicated presidential campaign account. Officers nominated by Obi, Kwankwaso and the National Treasurer will oversee the account.
It said the arrangement was designed to promote transparency and ensure compliance with INEC reporting requirements under the Electoral Act.
The NDC said its proposed campaign timetable would be implemented after funding and fundraising arrangements, which are to be led by Obi and Kwankwaso, are concluded.
The inauguration, initially scheduled for the first week of September, was postponed because of Obi’s travel schedule. The party said a new date and the final membership of the council would be announced after the outstanding inputs are received.
The NDC also urged its candidates and support groups to avoid internal disputes and focus on the party’s electoral objectives, stressing that candidates contesting under its platform should work towards a collective outcome.
Meanwhile, the party is preparing to deploy agents nationwide. State and local government chairmen have been directed to meet candidates and stakeholders within two weeks and compile separate lists of agents for National Assembly elections and governorship and State Assembly polls.
The lists will be reviewed and ratified by the party leadership before the selected agents undergo training. A committee headed by Deputy National Chairman (South), Babatunde Alli, with Vin Martin Ilo as secretary, will oversee the process.