The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Chairmanship Candidates Forum for the forthcoming Local Government election in Katsina State has officially pledged its strong support for the party’s legal challenge against the exorbitant nomination fees imposed on candidates for the election.
The PDP Forum stated that its stance reflects its commitment to ensuring a fair and inclusive electoral process for all candidates.
In a statement on Thursday, the Forum Chairman and PDP candidate for Dandume Local Government, Honourable Abdullahi Usman Tumburkai, lamented that the current nomination fees are excessively high and serve as a significant barrier to entry for many qualified individuals, particularly those from grassroots and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
*“These financial obstacles undermine democratic participation and limit the diversity of voices in local governance.
“A truly representative democracy must allow all citizens, regardless of their financial status, the opportunity to run for office. We stand firmly with the PDP in advocating for quashing the fees to promote inclusivity and equal representation in the electoral process.
“The PDP candidates cannot afford to pay over five hundred million naira for the nomination fees, a situation that is not only financially burdensome but also detrimental to democratic participation.
“The Forum calls on the Katsina State Government and the State Independent National Electoral Commission to join us in this vital effort to create a more equitable electoral environment.
“Together, we can ensure that the upcoming local government elections reflect the true will of the people and facilitate the participation of all deserving candidates.”
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) have united in a significant legal initiative, filing a lawsuit against the excessive nomination fees imposed by the Katsina State Independent Electoral Commission for the upcoming local government elections.
*“This collaborative effort highlights our shared commitment to a fair and inclusive electoral process that allows all qualified candidates the opportunity to participate.
“As we move forward with this legal challenge, we encourage our supporters and the general public to rally behind this cause. Together, we can work towards a democratic process that is accessible, fair, and representative of all citizens,” the statement concluded.
The Sun Nigeria
