The Nigeria Democratic Congress has denied allegations that it diverted levies and donations raised from aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that all contributions were paid into the party’s designated account and managed by the appropriate party organs.
The party described the allegations as a deliberate campaign of misinformation and propaganda allegedly being promoted by disgruntled elements seeking to damage its reputation as it prepares for the 2027 polls.
The NDC National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said the party’s financial situation was different from that of established parties with elected public officials and access to government-backed political structures.
Mr Director explained that, as a new party without a president, governors, ministers or other public office holders, the NDC needed financial contributions from members, aspirants, stakeholders and supporters to build and sustain its operations.
He said, “The NDC therefore took a proactive decision to solicit financial support from aspirants, stakeholders, and members of the public to fund party operations. This is provided for in the party’s constitution.”
According to the party, such donations, levies and contributions were paid directly into its designated account and handled by the relevant organs.
NDC denies personal collection of funds
The party also rejected allegations that its National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, personally demanded or collected money from aspirants for his own use.
Mr Director said all contributions were properly documented, receipted and accounted for.
He stated, “The national leader of our party neither demanded nor received any money from any aspirant for personal use.”
The spokesman added that the NDC would render a full account of its finances in accordance with the Electoral Act and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Party defends funding model
The NDC argued that receiving financial contributions from members and supporters was a legitimate and globally recognised way of funding political parties.
The party said its decision to seek donations was particularly necessary because it was attempting to build a nationwide structure and field candidates across numerous constituencies while operating without the financial advantages enjoyed by incumbent political parties.
It said, “The decision to seek donations and levies from members is not only appropriate but strategic.”
The party further insisted that its funding did not come from government resources.
It said it was funded through “donations, levies, and contributions from members, stakeholders, and well-wishers.”
NDC challenges accusers
The party challenged anyone claiming to have paid money to individual officials rather than the designated party account to provide evidence.
Mr Director said the NDC would not protect any official found to have improperly received party funds.
He stated, “Anyone who claims to have paid money to any individual other than the designated party account should come forward with proof.”
He added that the party’s leadership was considering legal action against those it accused of spreading false allegations.
Party tickets not sold
The NDC also rejected suggestions that its fundraising activities amounted to selling political tickets to aspirants.
The party maintained that the ability to finance an election was an important consideration in political planning but did not mean candidates were required to purchase nominations.
Mr Director said the party’s presidential and vice-presidential tickets were offered free of charge because of its confidence in the candidates, adding that the same applied to several other candidates.
The dispute comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections, with opposition platforms seeking to build structures, attract candidates and raise the resources needed to compete against incumbent political forces.
For the NDC, the controversy is therefore not simply about party finances. It also touches on the wider question of how emerging opposition parties can raise legitimate campaign funds while maintaining transparency and public confidence.
The party said it would remain focused on its political objectives despite the allegations and urged Nigerians to disregard what it described as falsehoods designed to undermine its growing popularity.
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