Nigeria’s ruling party, the (APC), has officially announced the cost of nomination and expression of interest forms for aspirants seeking to contest in upcoming elections, sparking widespread reactions across the political landscape.
According to details made public on Friday, March 27, 2026, the party pegged the presidential nomination and expression of interest form at a staggering ₦200 million, making it the highest among all categories. Aspirants vying for seats in the Senate are expected to pay ₦100 million, while those contesting for the House of Representatives will part with ₦70 million.
In the same vein, governorship aspirants are required to obtain their forms at ₦150 million, underscoring the high stakes involved in the race for state leadership positions. Meanwhile, hopefuls aiming for seats in various State Houses of Assembly are to pay ₦20 million for their nomination and interest forms.
The announcement has since generated intense debate among political stakeholders, civil society organizations, and the general public, with many raising concerns over the rising cost of political participation and its potential implications on inclusiveness, youth engagement, and democratic representation.
Observers argue that the high fees may limit the chances of grassroots politicians and young aspirants, thereby favoring wealthy contenders and established political figures. Others, however, see it as a strategic move by the party to streamline its candidate selection process and manage the influx of aspirants.
As political activities gradually intensify ahead of the elections, all eyes remain on the APC and other political parties to see how their nomination processes will shape the emerging electoral landscape in Nigeria.