The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Katsina State has announced that its governorship candidate and some other candidates currently presented by the party are temporary placeholders, pending the completion of the party’s screening process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The State Secretary of the NDC, Tijjani Zakari Kafinsoli, made this known in an exclusive interview with Hikaya Newspaper. He explained that the party adopted the temporary arrangement to comply with the regulations of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) while the screening of aspirants continues.
According to him, the individual currently serving as the party’s governorship candidate was given the responsibility of leading the process because of his position and influence within the party. He added that all those given such opportunities are long-standing party members and not outsiders. He said the screening exercise is expected to be completed before August.
Kafinsoli also spoke about the recent visit of the party’s national leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to Katsina State. He said the visit was aimed at condoling with the people of Katsina over the death of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar and discussing the party’s preparations for the 2027 elections.
He stated that Kwankwaso expressed concern over the growing insecurity affecting Nigeria, particularly Northern Nigeria. He added that the NDC is preparing to field candidates for all major elective positions, including President, Governors, Senators, Members of the House of Representatives, and State Assembly members.
The NDC secretary criticized some political parties, claiming that his party operates a more transparent and organized system. He alleged that some parties are still facing internal disputes arising from their primary elections due to what he described as a lack of fairness and due process.
He further explained that the use of placeholder candidates is not new in Nigerian politics, noting that similar arrangements have been adopted in the past to avoid legal and electoral complications. According to him, the NDC will ensure that all its eventual candidates meet the party’s requirements and electoral standards.
Kafinsoli concluded by urging the people of Katsina State to consider integrity, fairness, and competence when choosing leaders. He expressed confidence that the NDC would surprise many Nigerians in the 2027 elections and stated that the party continues to gain support across different parts of the country.