The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected allegations surrounding its candidate selection and financing ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the claims as deliberate misinformation aimed at damaging the party’s image.
The opposition party made its position known in a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director.
Director said the NDC, unlike the ruling party, has no president, governors, ministers or other public office holders through whom it could generate resources, making fundraising necessary to sustain its operations and prepare for the elections.
According to him, the party’s constitution permits contributions, levies and donations from members, supporters and stakeholders.
“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 party also dismissed claims that its National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, demanded or collected money personally from aspirants.
Director said the funds received by the party were properly receipted and accounted for, adding that the NDC would make its financial records available in accordance with the Electoral Act and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The party insisted that fundraising was necessary to build a nationwide opposition movement and field candidates across various constituencies.
“The decision to seek donations and levies from members is not only appropriate but strategic,” the NDC stated.
The party further denied allegations that political tickets were sold to aspirants, stressing that its presidential and vice-presidential tickets were offered without charge.
“That does not mean that party tickets were sold in the NDC. The presidential and vice-presidential tickets were offered free of charge because of our belief in the quality of the candidates,” it said.
The NDC accused unnamed opposition figures and other “sponsored elements” of spreading the allegations because of the party’s growing popularity across the country.
It challenged anyone claiming to have paid money to an individual outside the designated party account to provide evidence.
“Anyone who claims to have paid money to any individual other than the designated party account should come forward with proof. The NDC will not shield anyone,” the party said.
The party also said it was considering legal action against those responsible for what it described as false claims.
Defending Dickson, the NDC said his record in public service was inconsistent with the allegations being circulated against him.
“His entire lifestyle is anchored on the values of integrity, honesty, and simplicity, as attested to by all who have interacted with him,” the statement added.
The party maintained that it would not be distracted by the controversy, insisting that its focus remained on building a political movement based on transparency, justice and due process.
“The NDC remains committed to building a new Nigeria on the pillars of transparency, due process, and justice. We will not be distracted,” it stated.
The party urged its members, the media and the public to disregard what it described as false narratives, saying no amount of propaganda would stop its political movement.
