‘I’ve Moved From Frying Pan to Hellfire’ — Edo Senatorial Aspirant Regrets Leaving APC for NDC, Alleges Primary Crisis

A senatorial aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Edo South, Ehiozuwa Agbonayinwa, has publicly expressed regret over his decision to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the opposition party, describing his political transition as a move “from frying pan to hellfire.”

Agbonayinwa, a former member of the House of Representatives, made the remarks during an interview on Arise News’ News Day programme on Friday, where he also raised concerns over the conduct of the NDC’s internal processes and his alleged exclusion from the party’s final electoral list.

According to him, although he emerged victorious in the party’s senatorial primary for Edo South, he is currently being denied the opportunity to appear on the ballot, despite what he described as a valid and competitive process.

Dispute Over Party Primary Process

The former lawmaker explained that the NDC conducted a direct primary election after efforts to reach a consensus among aspirants failed.

He said contestants were initially encouraged to step down for one another during internal consultations, but no agreement was reached, leading to a full primary exercise.

Agbonayinwa insisted that the process was rigorous and transparent, adding that the party’s internal challenges have since made his experience in the NDC different from what he previously encountered in the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“We went through rigorous processes. I understand that they are new, but I have never experienced this being with APC or being with PDP,” he said.

He further noted that the primary was conducted on May 29, yet as of June 5, preparations for the election appeared unclear, raising concerns about the party’s readiness and internal coordination.

Allegations of Exclusion From Ballot

Agbonayinwa alleged that despite winning the primary, he is being sidelined from the final electoral process without clear explanation.

He expressed frustration that the outcome of the exercise is not being respected by the party leadership, describing the situation as unprecedented in his political career.

The aspirant maintained that his exclusion undermines the democratic process within the party and raises questions about internal fairness and adherence to electoral guidelines.

Claims Involving Party Leadership

The former House of Representatives member also referenced his interactions with the NDC’s national leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, whom he described as a long-time associate and political ally.

Agbonayinwa claimed that Dickson had initially encouraged him to purchase nomination forms and contest under the party’s platform, a move that influenced his decision to join the NDC.

However, he alleged that the same party leader later denied ever giving such advice, a development he said left him surprised and disappointed.

“The national leader of NDC, Senator Seriake Dickson… said I should come and go for the Senate under NDC. I considered it, consulted my leaders, and proceeded,” he explained.

“But to my greatest surprise, the same man who asked me to go and buy the form… said he never said so,” he added.

Growing Internal Tensions

The controversy highlights growing tensions within the NDC over candidate selection processes and internal party management ahead of the upcoming elections.

While the party has not officially responded to the allegations, the dispute underscores the broader challenges facing emerging political platforms as they attempt to consolidate structures and manage competing ambitions.

Agbonayinwa’s comments add to ongoing debates about party democracy, internal transparency, and the credibility of primary elections in Nigeria’s political system.