The Nigeria Democratic Congress has directed its state chapters not to collect registration fees from political support groups, saying all such registration is free and handled exclusively by the party’s national Directorate of Support Groups in Abuja.
National Publicity Secretary Osa Director said the warning followed reports that some state officials were demanding money from groups seeking formal recognition.
“The registration of support groups is free. It does not attract any fee whatsoever,” he said.
The party said state chapters had no authority to register support organizations independently or collect money for the process.
It warned that officials who violated the directive could face disciplinary action under the party’s constitution.
The clarification comes amid growing activity by political support organizations ahead of the 2027 elections, including groups associated with Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
The NDC said it valued the participation of support groups and would continue to provide a framework for their mobilization, while maintaining central control over formal registration.
