NDC says it raised ₦8.529bn in seven months, spent ₦2.402bn

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) says it has taken in ₦8.529 billion since it was formed about seven months ago, and has spent ₦2.402 billion running the party in that time.

The figures were presented by the party's National Treasurer, Dr Peter Onigah, at a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja on Monday. The money came from the sale of nomination forms, members' dues and levies, and contributions from supporters, according to the party.

The spending covered primaries, publicity, staff salaries and other running costs.

The meeting drew the party's presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. Also there were National Leader Senator Henry Seriake Dickson and National Chairman Senator Moses Cleopas, alongside former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege, Senators Victor Umeh and Tony Nwoye, former Ebonyi governor Sam Egwu and Aisha Binani, the former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Adamawa. Zonal officials and state chairmen attended as well.

Why the party opened its books early

Cleopas said the leadership chose to report to members before the party's first anniversary so people could see how their common resources are being managed. He said the move was not a response to rumours on social media.

Political parties are expected to file financial reports with the relevant government institutions at the end of each year. Cleopas said the NDC would present properly audited accounts to those bodies when due.

He also said the party's call for accountability in public life is not aimed at any individual. In his words, those trusted with public money should be able to explain what it was used for and how it helped Nigerians.

Senator Umeh, who represents Anambra Central and sits on the NEC, said the presentation showed the party was serious about openness. He said members can now discuss the party's finances from facts rather than speculation, though fuller details are still to come when proper accounting is completed.

Umeh asked the national leadership to send a share of the money raised in state chapters back to the states, so they can open offices and raise the party's profile. Cleopas said that is already being looked at and states will get their rightful share under the party's rules.

On party unity, Cleopas told the meeting that a reconciliation committee has toured the geopolitical zones to meet aggrieved aspirants, and that regular meetings at the national secretariat are helping settle disputes.

He urged members to close ranks and work for NDC candidates in the 2027 elections, saying the party intends to win by legitimate votes.