The newly inaugurated Chairman of the New Democratic Congress (NDC) in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area, Charles Chidiebere Ejimadu, has declared that the party is fully prepared to mount a formidable challenge against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming elections, expressing confidence that growing public dissatisfaction with the country’s economic situation will work in the party’s favour.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Ejimadu, popularly known as “Elder One” or “Dede Barnz,” described his emergence as the party’s local government chairman as another chapter in a long political career built on grassroots experience.
Rejecting suggestions that becoming an LGA chairman represents the peak of his political journey, he said it was only the beginning of greater responsibilities.
“It is not the peak. It is just the beginning,” he said.
Political Journey
Tracing his political evolution, Ejimadu explained that he began his political career at the grassroots level at the Zero party era and later, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), rising from the zonal structure to become a ward youth leader before contesting for councillorship on three occasions.
He later served as a PDP State Ex-Officio before moving to the Labour Party, where he said he was invited to help build the party’s grassroots structure as the Party LGA Chairman.
According to him, the migration from the Labour Party to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and eventually to the NDC, was driven by political realities and the search for a platform capable of winning elections.
“In politics, every politician wants to belong to a platform where victory is achievable. You move where the electorate is,” he said.
Why We Joined NDC
Ejimadu disclosed that he and his political associates eventually settled in the NDC because they believed the coalition built around the influence of Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso provides the party with credibility and electoral appeal.
He argued that many Nigerians remain eager for political change, insisting that economic hardship and dissatisfaction with the current administration have created an opportunity for alternative political parties.
“We believe Nigerians are looking for something different. The economy is difficult, and people are searching for leaders they can trust,” he stated.
Defends Frequent Party Movements
Responding to criticism over his movement across several political parties, Ejimadu maintained that political realignments are common in democratic politics.
According to him, experience and strategic positioning should not be mistaken for political inconsistency.
“Your dream should supersede people’s opinions. Every politician wants to be where he can effectively pursue his political vision and where the electorate is willing to support him,” he explained.
‘Experience, Not Clique Politics’
Addressing allegations that a small group of politicians who moved together from PDP to Labour Party, ADC, and now NDC dominate the party’s affairs in Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Ejimadu dismissed the claim.
He argued that what critics describe as a clique is simply a team that has worked together over time and developed mutual trust and understanding.
“Experience matters. When people have worked together for years, they understand one another’s strengths and weaknesses. That does not stop new members from joining us or contributing meaningfully,” he said.
He added that the party remains open to new members and intends to create opportunities for everyone willing to contribute to its growth.
NDC Will Campaign Beyond Party Members
Ejimadu stressed that the party’s campaign strategy would focus primarily on the general electorate rather than existing party members.
According to him, elections are won by persuading undecided voters and not merely by mobilising party loyalists.
“Our target is the larger voting population. Elections are decided by the electorate, not by party executives alone,” he noted.
Party Structure Taking Shape
The NDC chairman revealed that following his recent inauguration, the party has begun putting its structures in place across the local government.
He disclosed that ward chairmen and local government executives would be formally inaugurated to enable them to begin full political activities.
“We wanted to follow due process. Now that my inauguration has been concluded, we are empowering our ward executives to commence full party activities,” he said.
Why He Emerged as Chairman
Reacting to suggestions that his closeness to the leading figure in the party influenced his emergence as chairman, Ejimadu insisted that his emergence was based on experience rather than personal relationships.
According to him, years of active participation in grassroots politics gave party stakeholders confidence in his leadership ability.
“Experience gives confidence. Leadership requires someone who understands the political terrain and can respond to challenges effectively,” he stated.
APC Will Face Tough Contest
Although acknowledging that defeating the ruling APC would not be easy, Ejimadu insisted that the NDC possesses the leadership and public goodwill needed to compete strongly.
He maintained that the popularity of prominent opposition figures and increasing public desire for change provide the party with significant political advantages.
“It won’t be easy because APC is the ruling party. But we believe we have what it takes to present a credible alternative,” he said.
Commitment to Peaceful Elections
Ejimadu also dismissed fears that the elections could be characterised by violence.
He urged all political parties to allow voters to freely determine the outcome of the polls while assuring that NDC members would focus on protecting their votes through lawful means.
“Our responsibility is to ensure every vote cast for our party is properly accounted for. Elections should not be about violence but about allowing the people’s choice to prevail,” he said.
On NDC’s Legal Challenges
Responding to concerns over legal disputes involving the NDC, the chairman expressed confidence that the party would remain united irrespective of ongoing litigation.
He said members would continue to stand by the party while allowing the courts to determine outstanding legal issues.
“Our loyalty remains with the party. Whatever legal process is ongoing, we will respect it and remain committed to the NDC,” he stated.
Criticises the Federal Government’s Economic Policies
Ejimadu also criticised the economic policies of the Federal Government, arguing that ordinary Nigerians have yet to experience the expected benefits of subsidy removal and other fiscal reforms.
He alleged that worsening living conditions have increased public demand for alternative leadership.
“The ordinary Nigerian should be the priority of the government. Today, many people are finding life more difficult despite promises that economic reforms would improve their welfare,” he said.
He concluded by expressing optimism that the NDC would continue to expand its grassroots support ahead of the next general elections, insisting that the party is positioning itself as a credible alternative for voters seeking political and economic change.
