NDC Orders Free Registration for Support Groups, Warns Against Extortion

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has directed that the registration of support groups be conducted free of charge, warning party officials against demanding money from groups seeking registration.

The directive followed reports that some state chairmen of the party had been demanding registration fees from support groups.

In a statement signed on Friday by the National Publicity Secretary of the NDC, Osa Director, the party said no fee was required for the registration of support groups.

“The registration of support groups is free. It does not attract any fee whatsoever,” the statement said.

The party also clarified that the Directorate of Support Groups at its national headquarters in Abuja is solely responsible for the registration process.

It therefore directed all support groups seeking registration, as well as those making inquiries about the process, to deal directly with the Directorate.

The NDC stressed that no state chapter, officer or other official of the party had been authorised to register support groups or collect money from them under any guise.

The party consequently directed all state chapters to comply strictly with the directive, warning that violations would attract disciplinary action in accordance with its constitution.

The warning is aimed at preventing unauthorised collection of money and ensuring that support groups follow a uniform registration process through the designated directorate.

The NDC further reaffirmed its appreciation of the role of support groups in its political activities, particularly the Obidient and Kwankwasiya Movements.

It said it would continue to provide an enabling environment for the groups to work with the party and contribute to its activities at all levels.

The party urged its state chapters and officials to be properly guided by the directive and avoid actions capable of undermining its relationship with support groups.