Senator Seriake Dickson, the national leader of the [Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigeria_Democratic_Congress), announced on Thursday that the party is taking immediate steps to remedy the recent exclusion of several of its gubernatorial candidates from the list released by the [Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)](https://www.inecnigeria.org) ahead of the 2027 elections, and urged the commission to act without delay.
**What caused the controversy?**
The omission was identified a few days ago when INEC published the official roster of candidates for the upcoming gubernatorial contests, and a number of NDC aspirants were not listed despite having filed their nominations earlier.
**Did the affected candidates meet legal requirements?**
Dickson affirmed that every omitted candidate had completed registration with the party before the statutory 21‑day deadline stipulated by electoral law, satisfying all procedural obligations.
**How does the NDC view its candidate selection?**
He highlighted that the NDC’s slate for the presidential race, state houses of assembly and other positions was compiled after a rigorous and painstaking screening process, ensuring that only qualified individuals were presented to voters.
**What is the party’s response moving forward?**
The senator urged INEC to correct the apparent oversight promptly, stating, "We are confident that INEC will rectify this omission without delay." He added that, in the meantime, the party will continue consultations, town‑hall meetings, mobilisation and campaigning across all states and constituencies.
**What is the broader political stance?**
Dickson, who represents Bayelsa West in the 10th Senate, concluded, "We will continue to fight without giving up until we are victorious. NDC all the way," reinforcing the party’s commitment to its electoral agenda.