Former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili has finally weighed in on Aisha Yesufu’s failed bid to secure the National Democratic Congress (NDC) ticket for the Federal Capital Territory Senate seat — and she didn’t hold back.
As The Nation reports, Ezekwesili questioned the transparency of the party’s primary process, saying any political movement that claims to offer Nigerians a credible alternative must first practice democracy internally.
The former minister expressed disappointment over allegations that the primary election was manipulated against Yesufu, who had complained about repeated postponements, venue changes and irregularities during the exercise. Despite the controversy, Yesufu chose not to challenge the outcome and instead said she would learn from the experience.
Ezekwesili praised the activist’s courage and commitment, describing her as one of Nigeria’s most principled voices. She argued that the bigger issue goes beyond one election and reflects a political culture that often shuts out competent and ethical citizens from leadership opportunities.
In her message, Ezekwesili encouraged Yesufu not to lose hope, insisting her political journey is only beginning. She also warned that unless Nigerian politics creates room for capable and credible leaders, the country risks continuing what she described as a cycle of mediocrity.
For now, the fallout from the controversial primary is still generating reactions, with many Nigerians debating whether internal party democracy remains one of the biggest challenges facing the nation’s political system.
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