N5.5m Price Tag: APC Unveils Nomination Fees for Lagos LG Polls
In Lagos, the race for local government seats is heating up and it’s not just about politics, it’s about price tags too.
This week, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos released its official guidelines for aspirants in the upcoming July 12 Local Government Elections. If you’re aiming to become a Chairman, be ready to part with N5.5 million — that’s N5 million for the nomination form and N500,000 for administrative fees.
However, the party isn’t closing the door on everyone. Female aspirants get a discount, paying N2.5 million for the nomination form, while youths under 40 receive a 50% reduction. And in a move applauded by many, persons with disabilities (PWDs) won’t pay any nomination fee at all ,only N250,000 in admin charges.
For those eyeing councillorship positions, the fees are lower but still significant. Male aspirants must pay N1 million for the form and N100,000 administrative fees. Female councillorship aspirants pay just N250,000 for the form, and youths again enjoy a 50% discount. PWDs will only pay N50,000 in admin fees.
Beyond the fees, APC also laid out its conditions. Chairmanship aspirants must be at least 30 years old, while councillors must be 25 and above. All must have a minimum of a school certificate, prove party loyalty, and gather signatures from party members in their wards to support their nomination.
In short, if you’re dreaming of holding office in your local government, you’ll need passion, paperwork and a lot of cash.