Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has warned its state chapters against collecting money from support groups seeking registration, insisting that the exercise is completely free and can only be handled by the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.
The party issued the warning in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director Esq, following reports that some state chairmen were allegedly demanding registration fees from support groups.
Reacting to the reports, the NDC said, “The registration of support groups is free. It does not attract any fee whatsoever.”
The party explained that only its Directorate of Support Groups has the authority to register support groups, stressing that all applications and inquiries must be directed to the directorate at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.
It added, “The registration of support groups is the exclusive prerogative of the Directorate of Support Groups. Therefore, all inquiries and registration must be directed to the Directorate of Support Groups at the National Headquarters of the party in Abuja.”
The NDC also made it clear that no state chapter or party official has the power to register support groups or collect money for that purpose.
According to the statement, “No State Chapter, officer, or official of the party is authorized to register support groups or collect money for that purpose under any guise.”
The party directed all state chapters to comply fully with the directive, warning that anyone found violating it would face disciplinary measures in line with the party’s constitution.
It stated, “Any violation of this directive will attract appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the constitution of the party.”
The NDC reaffirmed its appreciation for the role played by its numerous support groups across the country, describing them as important partners in its political activities and grassroots mobilisation.
The party specifically acknowledged the Obidient and Kwankwasiya Movements, assuring them of its continued commitment to creating an enabling environment for their activities.
It said, “The NDC cherishes the support and partnership of all support groups, including the Obidient and Kwankwasiya Movements, and will continue to create an enabling environment for them to work for the victory of the party at all levels.”
The directive comes as political parties continue to strengthen their grassroots structures ahead of future electoral activities, with support groups expected to play a major role in voter mobilisation, public engagement and campaign outreach across the country.
