Opposition Parties Warn of Funding Imbalance Ahead of 2027 Elections

Ahead of the 2027 elections, several opposition parties, including the Democratic Congress (NDC), the Tanimu Turaki-led interim National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), the Young Progressives Party (YPP), and the Obidient Movement Worldwide, have expressed alarm over a significant funding imbalance with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). They warn that this disparity could adversely affect their campaign effectiveness.

The concerns arise as the Electoral Act 2026 has raised spending ceilings for various elective offices, allowing presidential candidates to spend up to N10 billion, governorship candidates N3 billion, and senatorial candidates N500 million. The maximum individual or corporate donation to a party or candidate has also increased from N50 million to N500 million.

NDC's National Publicity Secretary Osa Director criticized the APC for allegedly merging public funds with party finances. PDP spokesman Ini Ememobong highlighted threats and intimidation as greater concerns than fundraising.

PRP's Hakeem Baba-Ahmed and YPP's Martins Egbeola emphasized policy-driven campaigns over cash handouts. The APC has denied allegations of misusing public funds.