The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) says it is being built as a lasting political institution and not a personality-driven platform or a special purpose vehicle to be abandoned after elections.
In a statement on Sunday, Osa Director, national publicity secretary of the party, said the NDC’s second national executive committee (NEC) meeting adopted a series of resolutions aimed at strengthening internal democracy, accountability and party supremacy.
The statement comes amid controversies surrounding the party’s recently concluded primaries, with some aspirants alleging manipulation and lack of transparency in parts of the process.
According to the party, all governments elected on the NDC platform would be required to consult the party structure on programmes, policies and appointments, except for personal staff appointments.
“The NDC is committed to building the party as a strong and enduring institution, with emphasis on party supremacy,” the statement reads.
“The party remains supreme, and members are expected to align their personal interests and agendas with those of the party.”
The party also directed that all affiliated groups and non-governmental organisations operating within its fold must function under the supervision and control of the party structure.
“All affiliated groups and NGOs shall operate under the guidance and control of the party and must not function in parallel with, or independently of, the party structure,” it said.
As part of efforts to strengthen discipline within the party, the NDC said it would establish a comprehensive code of conduct for party officials and candidates.
To achieve this, a committee headed by the national legal adviser has been constituted to develop the framework and guidelines.
RECONCILIATION COMMITTEE
The party also announced the inauguration of a national reconciliation committee to engage aggrieved members following the primaries and promote unity ahead of the 2027 general election.
Reiterating its commitment to institution-building, the NDC said members must place the interests of the party and the country above personal ambitions.
“The NDC is being built as an institution, not a personality cult, political movement, or special purpose vehicle (SPV) to be used and discarded,” the statement said.
“Members are encouraged to remain committed to the party and contribute to its growth and sustainability for generations to come.”
The party further pledged to enforce strict financial accountability among its officers and candidates.
It said all funds received for campaigns must be disclosed to the party and channelled through designated campaign accounts at the appropriate levels.
“Party funds must be used strictly for party business,” the statement added.
“For candidates, there must also be strict accountability for all funding received. Monies sourced by candidates at all levels and contributions made by candidates to campaign accounts must be fully disclosed to the party.”
