The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has moved to clarify questions surrounding its fundraising approach and candidate selection process ahead of the 2027 general elections, after allegations emerged over possible irregularities in how the party finances its activities and manages political tickets.
The party, in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said its financial model was based on donations, levies and contributions from members, supporters and stakeholders, arguing that such practices are common among political organisations seeking to build nationwide structures.
The clarification places renewed attention on a broader issue facing emerging political parties in Nigeria: how to finance operations, expand grassroots structures and compete nationally without creating doubts about transparency and accountability.
According to the NDC, the allegations suggesting that aspirants were required to make improper payments or that party tickets were exchanged for money were inaccurate. The party said contributions received from members and supporters were channelled through official party accounts and managed by authorised structures.
The party also rejected claims involving its National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, stating that he neither demanded nor received money from aspirants for personal purposes.
“The National Leader of our party neither demanded nor received any money from any aspirant for personal use,” the party said, adding that all funds received by the organisation were accounted for through established procedures.
The controversy comes as political parties across Nigeria prepare for the 2027 electoral cycle, with emerging parties facing the challenge of building strong national presence while meeting legal and organisational requirements.
The NDC said its fundraising strategy was influenced by the circumstances surrounding its formation, noting that it was established without a sitting president, governor, minister or other public office holder who could provide an existing political structure or institutional support.
The party argued that raising funds through voluntary contributions was therefore necessary to support administrative activities, party development and electoral preparations.
Political financing has remained a significant issue in Nigeria’s democratic system, where parties require substantial resources to establish offices, mobilise supporters, conduct campaigns and participate in elections. However, concerns over transparency and accountability often arise when questions are raised about the sources and management of political funds.
The NDC said it was prepared to provide financial records as required by the Electoral Act and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The party maintained that its accounts would reflect compliance with relevant regulations governing political organisations.
Beyond funding allegations, the party also addressed claims that its electoral tickets were sold to aspirants. It denied the accusation, saying its presidential and vice-presidential candidates were selected based on the party’s assessment of their suitability and were not required to pay for nominations.
The party said the same principle applied to several other candidates who received its support.
The NDC challenged anyone alleging that payments were made outside official channels to provide evidence, while indicating that it was considering legal steps against individuals or groups it accused of spreading false information about its internal processes.
The party’s defence highlights a recurring debate within Nigeria’s political landscape: the balance between the financial realities of running political organisations and the need for openness in managing political contributions.
While parties rely on fundraising to survive and compete, observers often emphasise that clear financial reporting, internal accountability and compliance with electoral regulations are important for maintaining public confidence.
The NDC said it remained committed to transparency, due process and fairness, urging members and the public to disregard what it described as inaccurate claims about its finances and candidate selection process.
As preparations for the 2027 elections continue, issues around party funding, internal democracy and candidate selection are likely to remain central topics in Nigeria’s political conversation. For newer political movements seeking national relevance, demonstrating credible financial and organisational systems may become as important as presenting electoral candidates.