The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has defended the N10 million donations being made by aspirants seeking elective offices on the platform of the party, insisting that the funds are necessary to support its campaign activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A senior party chieftain, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the donations were designed to help finance the party’s operations and electioneering activities, particularly as a relatively new political platform preparing to challenge established parties.
According to the source, the donations are voluntary and also serve as an indication of an aspirant’s commitment to the party and capacity to fund part of their own campaigns.
“The donations are meant to help finance our campaigns. We believe that anyone who can make such a contribution has demonstrated the capacity to shoulder some percentage of their campaign expenses,” the source said.
The party official noted that the amount charged for the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for House of Representatives aspirants is N6 million, stressing that the additional donations would be used to strengthen the party’s campaign efforts and provide financial assistance to candidates.
“We need resources to finance our campaigns, and it is from these donations that we intend to support our candidates financially. We are a new party and we will be contesting against political heavyweights, both in terms of party structures and individual candidates. Therefore, we need adequate financial backing,” the source added.
The official also dismissed criticisms of the donations, pointing out that other political parties, particularly the ruling party, charge much higher fees for their Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms.
According to him, members of some parties are often required to offset the dues of hundreds of members from their constituencies in addition to purchasing nomination forms.
The issue of the N10 million donations recently came into public focus following allegations by actor-turned-politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, who reportedly described some South-East NDC leaders and the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as fraudsters over the fundraising arrangement.
Okonkwo is currently facing legal action instituted by Obi over the remarks.
Responding to concerns raised by critics, the party source maintained that no aspirant was being compelled to make the donation.
“I do not expect any aspirant to make an issue out of the donation because it is not compulsory. However, making such a contribution demonstrates commitment to the party and its objectives,” the source stated.
