The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a strong denial against widespread reports claiming it instructed its members to make a compulsory contribution of N10,000 each to finance the party's activities. The party's leadership has labeled the reports as a misrepresentation of comments made by its national spokesperson.
PDP Spokesperson Clarifies Voluntary Support Model
In a statement released on Sunday, January 18, 2026, the PDP's National Executive Committee (NEC), under the leadership of Kabiru Turaki, addressed the controversy. The statement was issued by the party's National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong.
Ememobong explained that his remarks, given during a recent media interview, were taken out of context. He was responding to a question about how the PDP plans to sustain its operations following the defection of some state governors from the party.
"The strategy is simple: go back to the people. When the people support you voluntarily, they fund the cause," Ememobong stated, referencing the party's early days in 1998 when small donations from supporters were crucial.
He emphasized that the mention of N10,000 was purely hypothetical and used as an illustration. "For instance, if 60 million Nigerians willingly give N10,000 each, that would amount to a significant sum," he said, adding that this was to demonstrate the potential power of collective, voluntary grassroots backing, which he noted is already visible in states like Plateau and Akwa Ibom.
No Compulsory Levy, Party Insists
The PDP spokesperson was categorical in his denial of any mandated financial drive. He stressed that while the body of some news reports correctly captured his explanation, the headlines created a false narrative of a compulsory levy.
The party clarified there is no fixed amount, no mandatory contribution, and no obligation whatsoever placed on any member of the PDP. Ememobong urged party members and the general public to disregard the misleading reports and continue to support the party voluntarily in any manner they deem fit.
Broader Context of PDP's Current Challenges
This clarification comes amid a period of internal and external challenges for the main opposition party. The PDP's National Working Committee (NWC), led by Kabiru Turaki, recently met with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) alongside a rival faction to present positions on the party's lingering leadership crisis.
INEC has stated it is aware the matter is before the Court of Appeal and will await a final judgment before recognizing any leadership. The Turaki-led NWC has indicated it will continue to function as the party's leadership pending the court's decision.
Furthermore, the party has recently faced setbacks with the defection of a serving senator from Nasarawa state, who cited personal reasons for his resignation in a letter dated January 10, 2026. The lawmaker is widely expected to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The PDP's swift rebuttal of the N10,000 levy story underscores its effort to manage public perception and maintain unity among its ranks during a turbulent political season.
