The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Edo State Chapter, has called on its members, candidates and supporters to remain calm, united and law-abiding following a court judgment affecting some of its candidates.
The party urged its members to exercise restraint, avoid statements capable of creating tension and await further directives from its National Executive Committee (NEC).
The appeal was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Edo State Secretary of the party, Hon. Peter Ajube, on behalf of the State Working Committee (SWC).
The committee acknowledged concerns and reactions generated by the judgment but cautioned members against actions that could worsen divisions within the party.
It described the NDC as a united political family committed to responsible leadership, democratic representation and the collective interests of the people of Edo State.
According to the statement, members are expected to demonstrate maturity, discipline, patience and loyalty to the party's established leadership and decision-making structures.
“The existing position of the party remains unchanged pending further directives from the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party in Abuja,” the statement said.
The SWC consequently advised party faithful against making assumptions, circulating unverified information or taking unilateral decisions regarding the status of the affected candidates.
It stressed that the national leadership would communicate appropriate directives through official channels once they become available.
The committee also urged candidates, party leaders, supporters and other stakeholders to respect the rule of law and maintain confidence in the party's leadership, while allowing relevant organs to address the situation through constitutional and legal channels.
It warned that the court judgment should not be allowed to undermine the unity, progress and collective interests of the party in Edo State.
“Rather, this is a time for greater solidarity, mutual understanding and renewed commitment to the ideals and objectives of our great party,” the statement added.
The SWC assured members that the matter was receiving the necessary attention and promised to communicate further information as soon as directives were received from the NEC.
It also encouraged party faithful to continue participating in the party's activities while maintaining peace, discipline and loyalty to its leadership.
“Our strength lies in our unity. Let us remain steadfast, respect our leadership and work together for the continued growth and success of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in Edo State,” the statement stated.