The Citizens Platform for Political Inclusion (CPPI) has commenced legal and legislative action against what it described as exorbitant expression of interest and nomination fees charged by political parties, warning that the practice is denying ordinary Nigerians the opportunity to contest elective offices.
The group said it had issued separate pre-action notices to the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). It also petitioned the National Assembly to amend the Electoral Act to regulate nomination fees.
CPPI, in collaboration with the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership and the Embassara Foundation, argued that the current nomination fee regime has become a major obstacle to inclusive political participation, particularly for women, youths, and persons with disabilities.
In a statement jointly signed by Rt. Hon. Osita Chidoka, High Chief Amagbe Kentebe, Mr. Iniruo Wills, Mr. Ken Lewis-Allagoa, Mr. Famous Obebi, and Adebiyi Ajayi, the coalition said the increasing cost of nomination forms has entrenched the monetisation of Nigeria’s political process.
According to the statement, access to elective office is increasingly determined by wealth rather than merit, competence, or commitment to public service.
The coalition maintained that the practice violates several provisions of the 1999 Constitution, including Sections 40 and 42 on freedom of association and equality before the law, as well as Section 14(2)(c), which guarantees citizens’ participation in governance.
It also cited Sections 17(2)(a) and 15(5) of the Constitution, arguing that the high fees undermine the principles of equality, social justice, and the fight against corruption.
CPPI further contended that the practice contravenes Articles 2, 3, and 13 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which guarantee equality, equal protection under the law, and the right of citizens to participate in public affairs.
The coalition noted that while Nigeria’s national minimum wage stands at ₦70,000 per month, or ₦840,000 annually, nomination forms for some elective offices now cost tens or even hundreds of millions of naira.
It argued that such costs encourage political sponsorship, strengthen godfatherism, increase undue financial influence in politics, and create incentives for elected officials to recover campaign expenses after assuming office.
CPPI demanded an immediate review and significant reduction of nomination fees, the adoption of a transparent and non-discriminatory fee structure, publication of the criteria used in fixing the fees, and compensation or refunds for aspirants adversely affected by the charges.
The coalition warned that it would institute legal proceedings if the political parties fail to respond within the stipulated period.
It also called on the National Assembly to amend the Electoral Act by introducing a statutory ceiling on nomination fees, empowering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to regulate such charges, and providing concessions for women, youths, and persons with disabilities.
