Opposition parties have accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of enjoying a financial advantage ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing economic hardship and alleged intimidation of potential donors.
Officials of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Young Progressives Party (YPP), and Obidient Movement Worldwide said they would rely on grassroots mobilization, digital campaigns, voluntary donations, and political alliances to reach voters.
The concerns come amid increased campaign spending limits under the Electoral Act 2026, which raised the maximum expenditure for presidential candidates from N5bn to N10bn and for governorship candidates from N1bn to N3bn. The maximum individual contribution to a candidate also rose to N500m.
NDC National Publicity Secretary Osa Director accused the APC of having “bottomless resources” and said his party would prioritize town hall meetings and local engagement over expensive rallies.
The PDP’s interim National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, said restrictions on political participation, alleged intimidation, and threats of violence were greater concerns than funding. He added that the party was relying on committed members to finance its activities.
PRP National Chairman Hakeem Baba-Ahmed criticized what he described as the monetization of elections, saying his party and its allies were developing alternative campaign strategies focused on policy proposals, credible candidates, and political cooperation.
Similarly, YPP National Publicity Secretary Martins Egbeola said the party would use digital platforms and grassroots mobilization to overcome financial constraints.
Onyeka Dike, media director of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, alleged that fear of political reprisals was discouraging some business owners from openly supporting opposition candidates.
However, the APC’s National Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, dismissed the allegations, challenging opposition parties to provide evidence that public funds were being used to finance the ruling party.
He attributed the APC’s financial strength to its membership and public support, urging opposition parties to focus on attracting more supporters rather than blaming the ruling party.
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