Hon. Frank Chike Okoli says his loyalty to Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), presidential candidate Peter Obi remains unshaken, despite his disappointment with the party’s recent primaries.
In an exclusive interview with our Managing Editor, Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, at his office at the weekend, the Orumba North/South Federal Constituency aspirant said he pioneered midwived the NDC in the area, by having funded the party’s takeoff in the constituency, secured office accommodation for it, and worked to build its structures from the ground up. It was therefore painful, he said, to watch the same party conduct primary elections he described as flawed.
“Despite all odds, I am still with Mr. Peter Obi,” Okoli stated. “But we must call things by their names if we want to be different.” He urged the NDC leadership to urgently address the lapses in the primary process and return to the ideals that set the party apart.
“For us to offer Nigerians a credible alternative, we cannot copy the same system that has put this country in a mess,” he advised. Okoli said his decision to speak out was not to fight the party, but to protect its integrity ahead of 2027, just as he maintained that internal democracy, transparency and fairness must be the NDC’s selling point if it hopes to win the trust of voters in Anambra and across the country. Excerpts:
Could you please introduce yourself.
My name is Honorable Frank Chike Okoli, Aneliaku Junior. Aneliaku is my father’s title. When he died, I took over as the first son. I’m from Ndiowu in Orumba North LGA of Anambra State.
What is your role in NDC?
I aspired to be a member of the Federal House of Representatives. I’m a big stakeholder in NDC in Orumba North and South because I was the person that brought NDC to Orumba North and South.
What did you do for the party?
I gave offices in Orumba North and South to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC). In my ward Ndiouwu, the office NDC has is from me. I also championed mass registration through roadshows.
Did you win the primary?
In the NDC, it looks like the ticket may go to he who has more money. I don’t have that money to buy myself through.
Was there a primary in your ward?
For me, there was no primary. The law says every ward should have a primary. But they did a kangaroo thing at the LGA headquarters in North and South without informing anybody.
Why didn’t you attend?
I was informed that what they did was not what is supposed to be done. So I decided not to partake in it.
What is the way forward for you in NDC?The presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has been my candidate from Labour Party to NDC. Whatever happens, I will stay with NDC and make sure he wins.
Many NDC members are disappointed. What do you say?
We are disappointed, but we have P2B in mind. We are working for P2B, not any other person. That won’t distract us.
Can Peter Obi change Nigeria in four years?
Yes. Look at Alex Otti in Abia. In less than four years he has transformed the state. If Peter Obi is given the chance, he will do more than expected.
What was Obi’s record in Anambra?
He improved security, handed schools to missionaries and education improved, and he left money for the state. He has the capacity.
What is Peter Obi’s role in NDC?
He is a candidate like me. He is not the owner or leader of NDC. He cannot do much until he takes over leadership of the nation.
Have you withdrawn your aspiration?
I am still pursuing it legally.
What about the person you are suspecting that they will give the ticket?The person registered in NDC on May 10. I started NDC in Orumba on March 29, 2026. He had double registration. He contested in Abia first.
Who do you blame for the crisis?
A: Sir Dickson, the founder, and the National Secretary, Enekwezu. They did not manage the affairs well during screening.
What about Kwankwaso joining NDC?
It’s a big boost. He is a strong politician in the north. With Kano, you are way up in the north for 2027.
Final advice to NDC leadership?
Mend your ways. Nigeria is big. If they continue like this, it will not help them in 2027.
Could you tell us your academic qualifications?
I am a chartered public administrator, doing my PhD, and I work with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Reps as a legislative aide.
