Weeks of uncertainty over the publication of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidates’ list gave way to relief on Wednesday as aspirants and candidates welcomed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s release of the party’s nominees, with many crediting National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, for preventing the internal tensions from spiralling into a full-blown crisis.

The delay in the release of the list had fuelled anxiety among aspirants, particularly those seeking seats in the National Assembly, and sparked speculation over the fate of the party’s ticket holders. However, with the names now officially published by INEC, several candidates say the development has reaffirmed confidence in the party’s leadership and reconciliation process.

Many of them singled out Dickson for praise, describing him as the stabilising force who steered the fledgling opposition party through months of post-primary disagreements without allowing internal divisions to derail its preparations for the 2027 general elections.

Abia Central Senatorial candidate and former senator, Nkechi Nwaogu, said Dickson demonstrated maturity and commitment in managing the party’s internal challenges.

“The National Leader deserves commendation for navigating the difficult period of the primaries, reconciliation and nomination process. While no exercise is perfect, he acted in the overall interest of the NDC,” she said.

She urged unsuccessful aspirants to remain loyal to the party, stressing that political contests inevitably produce both winners and losers.

Rejecting allegations that NDC tickets were allocated to the highest bidders, several aspirants insisted the process was transparent and that the accusations were unfounded.

A Canada-based former House of Representatives aspirant, who failed to secure the party’s ticket, said Dickson devoted months to reconciling aggrieved members rather than interfering with the work of state leaders and primary election committees.

Similarly, an Edo State aspirant dismissed claims that money influenced the nomination process, saying none of his meetings with the former Bayelsa governor involved discussions about financial inducements.

He urged party members to unite behind the NDC presidential ticket of Peter Obi and his running mate, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing the party as Nigeria’s strongest opposition platform ahead of the 2027 elections.

Also reacting to the publication of the INEC list, former House of Representatives aspirant for Aboh Mbaise/Ngor Okpala Federal Constituency in Imo State, Mazi Nnamdi Dickson Iroegbu, accepted the outcome of the nomination process and called on his supporters to remain committed to the NDC.

In a Facebook post, Iroegbu congratulated the successful candidates and urged party faithful to put the primaries behind them and work collectively to secure victory for the party in the 2027 general elections.