The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed allegations surrounding its candidate selection and financing process ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the claims as “deliberate misinformation and propaganda” being circulated by disgruntled elements.
The opposition party made its position known in a statement on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director.
Director explained that the NDC, unlike the ruling political establishment, does not have a president, governors, ministers, or other public office holders through whom it could draw institutional support. He said this created a major challenge in building and sustaining the party.
According to him, the party therefore decided to seek financial contributions from aspirants, stakeholders, members, and members of the public to support its operations. He maintained that such contributions are permitted under the party’s constitution.
“All such contributions, levies, and donations were paid directly into the designated party account and received and managed by the appropriate organs of the party,” the statement said.
The NDC stressed that receiving donations, levies, and contributions from members, supporters, and stakeholders is a common practice among political parties globally.
Dickson Denies Receiving Money Personally
The party also defended its National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, against allegations that he demanded or received money from aspirants for personal use.
Director stated that Dickson neither requested nor received funds from any aspirant for his personal benefit.
He added that all monies contributed to the party were properly received, receipted, and accounted for, stressing that the party would provide a full account of its finances in accordance with the Electoral Act and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The NDC further challenged anyone who claims to have paid money directly to an individual outside the designated party account to produce evidence.
“The NDC will not shield anyone,” the party stated, adding that its leadership is considering legal action against those responsible for spreading what it described as false information.
Party Rejects Ticket-Selling Allegations
The opposition party also rejected claims that its political tickets were sold to candidates.
According to the NDC, its presidential and vice-presidential tickets were offered free of charge because of its confidence in the candidates selected. It said the same principle applied to several other candidates.
The party acknowledged, however, that financing remains a critical component of election planning, particularly for an opposition party challenging an incumbent government at multiple levels.
It argued that raising funds through legitimate donations, levies, and contributions from members and supporters should not be interpreted as selling party tickets.
NDC Defends Its National Leader
The party also defended Dickson’s reputation, pointing to his background in public service and describing his values as being rooted in integrity, honesty, and simplicity.
It accused unnamed political opponents and sponsored elements of attempting to damage the reputation of the party and its leadership as the NDC continues to gain national attention ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party maintained that its rapid growth, achieved without what it described as the backing of “moneybags and the establishment,” represented a significant political achievement.
The NDC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, due process, and justice, insisting that it would not be distracted by the allegations.
“The NDC is here to salvage Nigeria, and no amount of propaganda will stop the movement,” the party said.
