Maha Christopher
The Democratic Leadership Alliance has dismissed allegations by former presidential aspirant, Abisayo Modupe, that she was unfairly excluded from the party’s presidential screening process, insisting that her disqualification followed due process and established party guidelines.
According to The Punch, the party made the clarification in a statement issued on Sunday by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Judith Aguenu.
The DLA described Modupe’s claims as “false and misleading,” maintaining that her exclusion was based on the outcome of a screening exercise conducted in accordance with the party’s constitution.
The party noted that contrary to Modupe’s assertion, she was not the only aspirant who sought the party’s presidential ticket.
“Three other aspirants duly purchased nomination forms, participated in the screening exercise, and were assessed in accordance with the Constitution and guidelines of the party. Those who met the prescribed requirements were cleared to proceed,” the statement said.
According to the party, Modupe also participated in the screening process but failed to secure clearance from the appropriate organs responsible for assessing aspirants.
“Abisayo Modupe also participated in the screening process but was not cleared by the appropriate organs of the party based on the outcome of the screening exercise,” Aguenu stated.
The DLA further argued that no other aspirant had challenged the credibility or transparency of the screening and nomination process.
“It is noteworthy that no other aspirant at any level of the party has raised complaints regarding the transparency or fairness of the nomination and screening exercises,” the statement added.
The party accused Modupe of bypassing available internal mechanisms for resolving grievances and instead taking her complaints to social media.
“Rather than utilising available internal mechanisms to challenge her disqualification, Abisayo Modupe has chosen to make allegations against the party through social media,” the statement said.
The DLA also rejected suggestions that gender bias played any role in the decision, insisting that it remains committed to promoting women’s participation in politics.
“We also reject any attempt to portray this matter as one of gender discrimination. The DLA remains one of the strongest advocates for women’s participation and leadership in politics, with women occupying strategic positions within the party,” it stated.
The party reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, accountability, due process, and internal democracy, stressing that personal ambitions should not be allowed to undermine institutional procedures.
The controversy follows the emergence of Samuel Memeh as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
