CSO Faults PDP Over Clearance of Ex-Minister Uche Nnaji for Enugu Governorship Primaries

A civil society organisation, Defence for Democracy, has criticised the Peoples Democratic Party over the clearance of former Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, to participate in the party’s governorship primaries in Enugu State.

The group alleged that Nnaji is currently under investigation over claims of forged credentials and questioned the decision of the PDP screening committee to allow him to contest.

In a statement signed by the organisation’s National President, Emeka Nwachukwu, the group described the clearance as a threat to the integrity of the party’s internal process.

The organisation further accused the PDP of indirectly working in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress, warning that the opposition party could face legal setbacks if Nnaji eventually emerges victorious in the election.

According to the group, unresolved allegations surrounding the former minister could provide grounds for accelerated court proceedings capable of overturning any electoral victory secured by the PDP candidate.

“Leadership must be built on trust, integrity and credibility. The people of Enugu State deserve leaders whose records can withstand public scrutiny without fear or controversy,” the statement said.

The organisation maintained that although the allegations against Nnaji have not been proven by any court, the PDP has a moral responsibility to exercise caution in its choice of candidate.

It added that Enugu people deserve leaders with integrity, grassroots connection and a clear public record, stressing that several other credible aspirants exist within the political space.

The group also urged the national leadership of the PDP to intervene in the matter to avoid what it described as potential political embarrassment for the party.

Defence for Democracy called on Nnaji to clear his name over the allegations surrounding his academic credentials before pursuing his governorship ambition.