2027: “No Favouritism” — NDC Speaks On Party Tickets, Illegal Payments

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected allegations that it sold party tickets or collected illegal payments from aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to Ireporter Online, the opposition party described the allegations as deliberate misinformation and propaganda allegedly being circulated by disgruntled individuals seeking to discredit its candidate selection and financing processes.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, NDC National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said the party had relied on donations, levies and contributions from aspirants, members, stakeholders and supporters to finance its operations.

Director explained that the funds were paid directly into the designated party account and managed by the appropriate organs of the party, insisting that such contributions were consistent with established practices for political parties.

He also dismissed claims that the party’s National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, personally demanded or received money from aspirants.

According to the party, all funds received were properly documented and accounted for, while its financial records would be submitted in accordance with the Electoral Act and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The NDC argued that financing a national opposition party and preparing candidates for elections across multiple constituencies required substantial resources, particularly for a party without elected governors, ministers, or other public office holders.

The party maintained that its decision to raise funds through contributions and levies was a deliberate strategy to sustain its operations without relying on government resources or wealthy political sponsors.

The NDC further challenged anyone claiming to have paid money to an individual outside the designated party account to provide evidence of such transactions.

It warned that it would not protect anyone found to have engaged in unauthorised financial dealings and said its leadership was considering legal action against those allegedly spreading false claims.

The party also insisted that its presidential and vice-presidential tickets were not sold, stating that they were offered without charge based on its assessment of the candidates’ suitability. It added that the same principle applied to several other candidates.

The NDC described allegations linking Dickson to financial misconduct as inconsistent with his public service background and personal values, arguing that the claims were part of an alleged campaign aimed at damaging the reputation of the party and its leadership.

The opposition party said it remained focused on building a political movement founded on transparency, due process and justice, adding that it would not be distracted by what it described as propaganda.

The NDC consequently urged its members, the media and the general public to disregard the allegations unless supported by credible evidence.