Abuja, September 14, 2026 — The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced plans to raise funds for its 2027 general election campaigns through small donations from ordinary Nigerians, drawing inspiration from the crowdfunding model successfully used by the Obidient Movement in 2023.
National Publicity Secretary Osa Director revealed the strategy during an interview with Trust TV, stating that the party aims to reduce the influence of wealthy political financiers, often referred to as “moneybags.”
“We should be inventive, creative and innovative in the way we fund our party,” Director said. He noted that the Obidient Movement effectively mobilised support through small contributions during the 2023 elections, and the NDC intends to adopt a similar approach. Supporters will be able to donate according to their capacity, with amounts as low as ₦1,500 or whatever individuals can afford.
Director added that the system would include transparency measures, allowing donors to track how funds are used. Professional auditors and reputable audit firms will oversee the process, and the party plans to publish accounts of funds raised and expended.
While no firm ceiling on individual donations has been set yet, large offers — such as ₦500 million — will be carefully scrutinised before acceptance to avoid legal, reputational or political risks.
The announcement builds on earlier comments by NDC National Leader and Senator Seriake Dickson. Speaking on Arise News’ Prime Time on September 10, Dickson said the party would encourage contributions of as little as ₦1,000 or ₦2,000 from ordinary citizens.
“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,” Dickson stated.
“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 ₦1,000, ₦2,000, as it happens all over the world.”
Dickson described the NDC as the only major party not funded through the government treasury and emphasised that the grassroots model would give ordinary Nigerians a direct stake in the political process.
The party has already introduced contribution limits during its primaries — ₦10 million for House of Representatives aspirants and ₦20 million for Senate aspirants — as part of efforts to curb excessive financial influence.
The NDC’s move comes as political parties prepare for the 2027 polls. Party officials say the crowdfunding initiative is intended to build a broad-based, people-powered campaign structure rather than relying primarily on a small number of wealthy donors. Further details on the operational framework, including donation platforms and accountability mechanisms, are expected after ongoing consultations with stakeholders.
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