Breaking: Ex-Presidential Aspirant Gets ₦10.8 Million Refund From DLA After Nomination Deal

The refund was confirmed in a statement released on Friday to journalists by Busari-Akinnadeju, who noted that the party had paid ₦10.8 million out of the ₦12 million presidential nomination fee she initially paid in April 2026.

According to her, she stepped down from the party on May 28 after alleging irregularities in the selection process, including what she described as the imposition of a consensus candidate that did not comply with the Electoral Act 2026.

She also claimed she was subjected to disciplinary action after refusing to endorse the consensus arrangement, which she said was used to remove her from the list of cleared aspirants.

Busari-Akinnadeju confirmed receiving ₦10.8 million from the party, while noting that a balance of ₦1.2 million remains outstanding. She expressed appreciation that the party had begun the refund process.

However, she stressed that the repayment does not resolve the deeper issues surrounding the party’s internal processes.

According to her, the refund does not restore what she described as the integrity of the nomination process, arguing that the initial collection of funds was unjustifiable.

She alleged that efforts were made to prevent her from participating in the screening process and that the primary election structure was manipulated through directives issued to state chairmen to avoid physical participation at the national secretariat.

She further argued that disciplinary action taken against her was used as a means to bypass statutory requirements, adding that consensus arrangements require full consent of all cleared aspirants under the Electoral Act 2026.

Busari-Akinnadeju maintained that her removal from the race followed a hastily arranged disciplinary process, which she claimed lacked proper details and due process.

She added that her concern now extends beyond her personal refund, warning that future aspirants could face similar treatment without recourse if systemic issues are not addressed.

While appreciating public support, she said widespread attention helped ensure accountability in the matter.

She also announced that she is now non-partisan and has launched a civic platform aimed at promoting leadership accountability in Nigeria, stating that she intends to continue her advocacy ahead of the 2027 elections.