By Julian Osamoto
The Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), a civic organisation, has expressed concern over reports that a group identified as APC youths in Kogi State publicly pledged ₦100 million toward the purchase of the 2027 presidential nomination form of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a statement released to Democracy Radio, KDI says the public announcement of the fund at a political rally, attended by senior public officials, presents issues it believes require clarification from electoral regulators and law-enforcement agencies.
The organisation acknowledged that political participation and support are legitimate democratic rights but noted that campaign and political financing in Nigeria are regulated by law to prevent undue influence.
KDI referenced Section 87(1) and (2) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to regulate political contributions.
It also cites Section 88(8) of the Act, which sets a ₦50 million ceiling on donations by individuals or entities to a candidate in an election.
According to the group, although the reported ₦100 million was described as funding for a future nomination form, its ideal purpose supporting the political ambition of a named candidate raises a “prima facie compliance concern.”
KDI said allowing such fundraising efforts without regulatory clarification could pose risks of contribution limits being circumvented through support groups or informal political associations.
The organisation also pointed to Sections 221 and 225 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which outline transparency and accountability obligations for political parties regarding funding sources.
It further expresses concern over reports that public officials were present at the event, noting that officeholders have a responsibility to uphold electoral regulations.
KDI advised relevant authorities to provide clarification as this would safeguard public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.
