NDC Primaries: Sheriff Mulade Records Early Lead Amid Alleged Irregularities in Warri-South
By Tobore Agbedi
Results trickling in from the ongoing Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) primaries for the Warri Federal Constituency indicate that renowned environmental rights activist and peace advocate, Dr. Sheriff Mulade, is currently maintaining an early lead in the keenly contested election.
According to preliminary headcount results monitored by party agents and observers, Dr. Mulade recorded what supporters described as a landslide victory in both Warri North and Warri South-West Local Government Areas, placing him ahead of other aspirants in the race for the party’s House of Representatives ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.
However, the exercise in Warri South Local Government Area has reportedly been marred by allegations of irregularities and voter suppression, leading to tension and spontaneous protests by some party members and supporters.
Sources within the party alleged that several supporters and delegates believed to be loyal to Dr. Sheriff Mulade were denied the opportunity to vote, while others claimed their votes were not counted during parts of the collation process. The development sparked immediate protests at some voting centres, as aggrieved supporters accused certain officials of attempting to manipulate the outcome of the exercise.
Despite the controversy, the contest in Warri South remains highly competitive, with Barrister Esimaje Awani reportedly mounting a strong challenge against Dr. Mulade.
Early indications from the ongoing collation suggest a tight race between both leading contenders in the area.
Party officials have continued the collation process amid heightened political tension and growing anticipation among party faithful across the constituency.
Political observers say the outcome from Warri South may ultimately determine the eventual winner of the NDC ticket, especially given the strategic voting strength of the local government area.
As of the time of filing this report, the NDC electoral committee had yet to officially announce the final results of the primaries, while calls for transparency and fairness in the collation process continue to mount.
