Enugu State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), led by Dr Johnpaul Anih, has announced the successful screening of all its candidates by the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) ahead of the September 26 Local Government Elections.

Speaking with journalists in Enugu on Monday, Dr. Anih disclosed that the party has fielded over 14 chairmanship candidates and more than 210 councillorship candidates across the state.

He stated that the party’s electioneering strategies are already in full swing, describing the forthcoming local government elections as a significant test of the political mood in Enugu State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Anih commended ENSIEC for its commitment to fairness, transparency and inclusiveness throughout the screening exercise, while warning that any attempt to compromise the integrity of the electoral process would be resisted through legitimate and democratic means.

“We are encouraged by the professionalism and transparency demonstrated by ENSIEC throughout the screening process. The commission has so far provided a level playing field for all participating political parties, and we urge it to sustain this approach until the conclusion of the elections.

“However, we wish to make it clear that any attempt by individuals or groups to manipulate the process will be strongly resisted through lawful means. The credibility of the September 26 election will serve as a major indicator of the state’s preparedness for the 2027 general elections,” he said.

The NDC Chairman further noted that the party conducted one of the most credible and transparent primary elections in the state, duly monitored by ENSIEC and relevant security agencies, resulting in the emergence of competent candidates with the capacity to provide effective leadership at the grassroots.

“Our candidates emerged through a transparent and credible process that reflected the wishes of party members. We are confident that they possess the competence, integrity, and grassroots support needed to provide quality leadership across the local government areas.

“Given a free, fair and credible election, we are confident that our candidates will perform exceptionally well and earn the mandate of the people,” he added.

Also speaking, the State Secretary of the party, Dr Sebastine Chukwuebuka Okafor, expressed confidence that the NDC would record a strong performance in the September elections if the process remains free from manipulation and electoral malpractice.

According to him, the party’s candidates are individuals with proven records of service and community engagement in their respective local government areas and wards.

“All the candidates presented by our party have demonstrated commitment to grassroots development and community service. Their emergence has already generated excitement among the electorate and reinforced the belief that credible alternatives exist,” he stated.

Dr. Okafor maintained that many residents of Enugu State are eager for a new political direction anchored on accountability, effective representation, and people-centred governance.

He also commended ENSIEC for providing a fair environment for all political parties to participate in the electoral process, noting that such conduct, if sustained, would strengthen public confidence in the state’s electoral system.

The NDC Secretary further called on the people of Enugu State to continue supporting the party’s vision for grassroots transformation.

“The NDC remains committed to ending poor representation, unfulfilled promises, and ineffective grassroots governance. We are offering a platform built on accountability, development, and people-oriented leadership.

“We urge Ndi Enugu to support our candidates and join us in building local governments that truly serve the interests of the people,” he concluded.