NDC takes steps to strengthen party structure and accountability

The Nigeria Democratic Congress has shared new plans to improve how the party works, ensure accountability, and support party leadership. This is all part of their goal to make the party stronger.

The plans were announced in a statement on Sunday by Osa Director, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, after the second meeting of the National Executive Committee.

The party aims to build "a strong and enduring institution" and make sure that any government elected under its banner stays accountable to the party.

"The NDC is committed to building the party as a strong and enduring institution, with emphasis on party supremacy," the statement said.

They also mentioned that all programs, policies, and appointments (except for personal staff) of governments elected through the party must be done in consultation with the party.

The party emphasized that members should prioritize the party's goals over personal interests. They stated, "the party remains supreme, and members are expected to align their personal interests and agendas with those of the party."

To improve how they operate, the NDC directed that all affiliated groups and NGOs must follow the party's guidance.

"All affiliated groups and NGOs shall operate under the guidance and control of the party and must not function independently of the party structure," the statement said.

The NEC also approved a new Code of Conduct for party officials and candidates. A committee led by the National Legal Adviser will develop the framework and guidelines for this.

Additionally, the party announced the creation of a National Reconciliation Committee to talk with and resolve issues for members who feel aggrieved.

"A National Reconciliation Committee has been inaugurated to reconcile all aggrieved members of the party," the statement noted.

The NDC pointed out that it is being built as a long-term political organization, not just a tool for individual 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 party stated.

They encouraged members to stay focused on the party’s growth and future, adding that "at all times, and for all candidates and aspirants, total allegiance must be to the party and the national interest."

Regarding financial matters, the party promised to ensure strict accountability among its leaders and candidates.

"On financial probity, the party will enforce strict accountability in the management of party resources by all officers, and party funds must be used strictly for party business," the statement said.

The party also directed that all funds raised by candidates and contributions to campaign accounts must be fully reported through the party.

"Monies sourced by candidates at all levels, and contributions made by candidates to campaign accounts, must be fully disclosed to the party at the appropriate levels," the statement added.