Ex-NDC Aspirant Drags Party To Court, Demands ₦20 Million Refund

According to Ireporter Online, a former senatorial aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Enugu West, Enugu State, Ogochukwu Onyema, has instituted legal action against the party over an alleged ₦20 million payment made during the nomination process.

Onyema is requesting the refund of the said sum, which he claims was obtained through alleged misrepresentation and undue influence. The case, filed before the Enugu State High Court with suit number E/169/2026, lists several defendants, including the party’s national leader, Seriaki Dickson, Moses Zunoghe, two other individuals, and First City Monument Bank.

Court documents indicate that Onyema, who later emerged as the senatorial candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Enugu West after failing to secure the NDC ticket, is also seeking ₦5 million in special damages.

In addition, he is asking the court to issue an order freezing account number 1046691859, allegedly linked to the party and domiciled with FCMB, pending the determination of the substantive suit. He further seeks a directive compelling the defendants to refund ₦20 million from the account or any other available source to his designated account number 1023323381 with UBA, under OAU Onyema & Co, Enugu.

The claimant is also demanding ₦200 million in general damages, citing psychological trauma, embarrassment, hardship, and inconvenience allegedly suffered as a result of the defendants’ actions. He is additionally requesting 10 per cent monthly interest on the ₦20 million from June 2, 2026, when his demand letter was acknowledged, until full repayment, as well as post-judgment interest until final liquidation.

The court has adjourned the matter to Thursday, July 2, 2026, for reassignment and further hearing. Onyema had earlier alleged that he was “duped” after making several payments described as party support fees as a condition for securing the ticket, adding that he resorted to litigation after his refund request was allegedly ignored.