NDC Denies Illegal Payments, Favouritism in 2027 Ticket Race

The Nigeria Democratic Congress has dismissed allegations that party officials solicited illegal payments from candidates seeking nomination for the 2027 elections. In a statement released this week by National Publicity Secretary Osa Director, the party characterised the accusations as false claims intended to damage its reputation ahead of the general elections.

The NDC stated that all money collected from aspiring candidates, party members, and donors was deposited into an official party bank account rather than individual pockets. The party said these funds have been managed through proper party structures and will be disclosed in accordance with Electoral Act requirements.

The statement did not provide specific figures or dates of when these disclosures would occur. The party also rejected suggestions that its candidate selection process favoured certain aspirants over others.

According to the statement, the NDC emphasized that as a relatively new political party without sitting presidents, governors, or ministers, building and maintaining the party structure requires financial contributions from interested parties. The statement framed this practice as consistent with its party constitution.

The NDC attributed the allegations to what it called a coordinated campaign of misinformation by disgruntled individuals seeking to undermine the party's growing political standing. The timing of these denials—coming as the party finalizes its 2027 slate—suggests ongoing internal tensions over how candidate fees and selection procedures have been managed, though the party's statement did not acknowledge specific complaints or name critics.