Agbonayinwa NDC crisis deepens as Edo South aspirant Ehiozuwa Agbonayinwa alleges betrayal and denial over senatorial ticket process
Ehiozuwa Agbonayinwa, a senatorial aspirant for Edo South under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has publicly criticised the party’s internal processes, describing his political journey as a “painful reversal” after defecting from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Also read: Aisha Yesufu Questions NDC Primary Process
Agbonayinwa NDC crisis emerged during an appearance on Arise News News Day on Friday, where the former member of the House of Representatives alleged that he is being sidelined despite claiming victory in the party’s senatorial primary election.
Agbonayinwa said his decision to leave the APC for the NDC has turned into what he described as a “frying pan to fire” experience, citing what he called inconsistencies and confusion surrounding the conduct and outcome of the party’s primary.
According to him, the direct primary conducted on May 29 produced him as the winner, but he now fears he may be denied a place on the ballot despite meeting all requirements.
He further claimed that Senator Seriake Dickson, a former Bayelsa State governor and national figure within the NDC, initially encouraged him to contest for the Senate under the party but has since denied making such recommendations.
Agbonayinwa said he was surprised by what he described as a sudden shift in position, insisting that his engagement with party leadership was transparent and well-documented.
He recounted that he had initially considered contesting for the House of Representatives before allegedly being persuaded to pursue the senatorial ticket following discussions with party leaders.
The aspirant stressed that internal disagreements and lack of clarity within the party structure have left him uncertain about his political future, adding that he has never experienced such disputes in his previous political engagements.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress has yet to issue an official response to the allegations at the time of filing this report.
Also read: Wike Blasts ADC, NDC, Calls Opposition Parties “Lying Messiahs”
Political observers say the development highlights growing tensions within the party as it navigates its internal selection processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
