Enugu 2027: I Remain NDC Senatorial Candidate, Says Bishop Ossai, Dismisses Substitution Rumours
By Chijioke Attah, Nsukka, 4/7/26
The candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the Enugu North Senatorial District, Bishop Oscar Ossai, has dismissed speculations that he has been replaced ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that he remains the party’s candidate.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Ossai, who contested the recent senatorial by-election on the platform of the NDC, said there had been no official development within the party to justify any claim of his substitution.
According to him, his name remains on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal as the duly recognised candidate of the party for the Enugu North Senatorial election.
While acknowledging reports of political manoeuvring within the party, Ossai alleged that some individuals were lobbying to displace him but expressed confidence that due process would prevail.
“We are closely monitoring developments within the party and will ensure that the right thing is done,” he said.
The cleric-turned-politician further disclosed that some aggrieved persons had instituted legal action against him and INEC in what he described as a desperate attempt to frustrate his senatorial ambition.
He, however, assured his supporters that he remained optimistic of victory, maintaining that the legal challenges would not derail his political aspiration.
Ossai also alleged that certain individuals had recruited social media influencers to circulate what he described as false and unverified reports aimed at misleading the public and creating confusion over the party’s candidate.
He appealed to his supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that the situation was under control.
Rumours have continued to swirl in recent weeks that Dr Pat Asadu, a former four-term member of the House of Representatives who represented Igbo-Eze South/Nsukka Federal Constituency, had been pencilled down to replace Ossai as the NDC’s senatorial candidate for the 2027 general election.
The speculation has generated mixed reactions among party members, with supporters divided over the development.
While some party faithful have backed the alleged move, others have warned that any attempt to impose a candidate on the zone could further deepen internal divisions and undermine the party’s electoral prospects in Enugu North.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
