” It’s Baseless”, NDC Debunks Allegations Of Extortion, Coercion Against The Leadership
The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has described the allegations of extortion, exploitation and coercion against the Lagos State Chapter as “baseless and the figment of the imagination” of those peddling it.
Reacting to the allegations in an electronic mail sent to www.newsnowonline.com.ng the Party it a statement titled; ” Re: False, Misleading And Malicious Publication Against The Leadership of NDC Lagos State “, stated that “First, we categorically reject the false allegations of extortion, exploitation, and coercion against the leadership of NDC Lagos State.”
Continuing, the statement read; “At no point were aspirants forced or compelled to make any unofficial payments. The only approved payments made by aspirants were the officially recognized screening fees as directed and approved by the National body of the party. Beyond this, party supporters and stakeholders were encouraged to make voluntary donations towards party activities and administration, which is a normal practice in political organizations across the country. These donations were entirely voluntary, and no aspirant or member was threatened, pressured, or denied participation for refusing to donate.
“Contrary to the misleading claims in the publication, every legitimate payment made to the party was duly documented and acknowledged with official receipts. The insinuation that funds were secretly collected for personal enrichment is entirely false, reckless, and unsupported by any credible evidence.
“It is important to clarify that the Lagos State Chapter is currently in the process of finalizing its official party account structure. Pending the completion of that process, temporary administrative arrangements were put in place strictly for operational convenience and accountability. The State Chairman is actively working to ensure the immediate establishment of a fully operational official party account, after which all party funds and records will be formally consolidated in line with proper financial procedures and transparency standards.
“We also strongly reject the sensational claims suggesting that party officials are using aspirants’ funds for “luxury lifestyles,” “hotel bills,” or personal entertainment. These allegations are malicious fabrications designed solely to tarnish the image of hardworking party leaders. The reality remains that some party officials, including the State Chairman, often operate from temporary locations and accommodations due to logistics and proximity challenges, not for luxury or extravagance as falsely portrayed.”
The statement stated that it’s aware that some individuals are not comfortable with the phenomenal growth of the party in Lagos State, adding that the leadership is committed to transparency, accountability and democratic values and ethos and will not be distracted by disgruntled elements and fifth columnists working to dèrail the party.
“We therefore urge members of the public to disregard the publication in its entirety, as it does not reflect the true position, operations, or values of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in Lagos State,” the statement added.
