The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) says it plans to seek campaign donations from ordinary Nigerians to reduce the influence of wealthy individuals in the country’s political system ahead of the 2027 elections.
National leader of the party, Seriake Dickson, disclosed this during a television interview, saying Nigerians would be allowed to contribute as little as N1,000 to support the party’s activities.
Dickson, who represents Bayelsa West in the Senate, said democracy should not be dependent on wealthy individuals who use their financial resources and access to government to influence political processes.
“You cannot allow your democracy to be funded by moneybags and billionaires who are now trillionaires using government resources. You will continue to be oppressed,” he said.
He said the party wanted to establish a funding process that would enable ordinary Nigerians to contribute to its activities.
“So, we have got to help Nigerian poor people, oppressed people, break loose from the oppressors. We want a process by which Nigerians, ordinary Nigerians, can contribute N1,000, N2,000, as it happens all over the world,” Dickson said.
The NDC national leader also disclosed that consultations were ongoing on the composition of the party’s presidential campaign council, adding that the members would be announced soon.
He said the party was being cautious to avoid announcing a list that could later be withdrawn.
Dickson also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other relevant institutions to ensure free, fair and credible elections in 2027.
“We will take our case to the Nigerian people, and every vote will be fought for. Every vote will be contested,” he said.
The development comes amid controversy over the party’s candidate selection and funding processes.
The NDC had recently dismissed allegations of illegal payments during its candidate selection exercise, describing the claims as deliberate misinformation and propaganda by disgruntled elements.
The party’s national publicity secretary, Osa Director, also rejected allegations that Dickson demanded or received money from aspirants.
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