The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has said that it is not a special-purpose vehicle that can be used and discarded by anyone.

The party recently announced former presidential candidate Peter Obi as its flagbearer for the 2027 presidential election.

Before NDC, Obi was a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) but dumped the party after months of joining. He had been a member of the Labour Party, which fielded him in 2023 as presidential candidate.

Since joining the NDC, his supporters, popularly known as Obidients, have been accused of creating rancour in the party.

In an apparent reaction, the NDC announced that the party remains supreme nd members are expected to align their personal interests and agendas with those of the party.

The statement reads, "The NDC is committed to building the party as a strong and enduring institution, with emphasis on party supremacy. The programs, policies, and appointments (except personal staff) of all governments elected on the platform of the party must be made in consultation with the party structure.

"The party remains supreme, and members are expected to align their personal interests and agendas with those of the party.

"All affiliated groups and NGOs shall operate under the guidance and control of the party and must not function in parallel with, or independently of, the party structure.

"A comprehensive Code of Conduct shall be established for all party officials and candidates. To this end, a committee has been constituted under the leadership of the National Legal Adviser to develop the framework and guidelines.

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

"The NDC is being built as an institution, not a personality cult, political movement, or Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to be used and discarded.

"Members are encouraged to remain committed to the party and contribute to its growth and sustainability for generations to come.

"At all times, and for all candidates and aspirants, total allegiance must be to the party and the national interest.

"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.

"For candidates, there must also be strict accountability for all funding received. 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 (local government, state, zonal, and national). Such funds must be received through dedicated party campaign accounts, including presidential and governorship campaign accounts of the party, as applicable."

Signed: