Edo Labour Party Defends N30 Million Nomination Form Fee for Governorship Aspirants

The Edo State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) has defended its decision to set the cost of expression of interest and nomination forms for the governorship election at N30 million, stating that it is the lowest among the three major political parties and should be affordable for serious aspirants.

Kelly Ogbaloi, the state chairman of the party, reiterated this stance during a press conference in Benin City ahead of the party’s governorship primary election scheduled for February 22, 2024.

The announcement comes after 18 governorship aspirants on the party’s platform protested against the N30 million fee for the nomination forms.

They appealed to the national leadership of the party to reduce the fees to a range of N1 million to N5 million, arguing that the current fees do not align with the party’s principles and public perception.

In response, Ogbaloi explained that the cost of elections in Nigeria is substantial, citing the recent general elections as an example.

He emphasized that political party funding is a significant challenge and that the sale of forms is a primary source of funding for parties.

Ogbaloi clarified, “Aside from being qualified to contest an election, aspirants must also be ready to show capability and capacity to fund campaigns and other election requirements.”

He emphasized that the fees enable the party to fulfill its responsibilities during and after the elections, including addressing potential litigation and logistical issues.

The chairman revealed that two aspirants, one male and one female, have purchased the party’s forms, urging others to follow suit.

He assured aspirants of a level playing field and emphasized the party’s commitment to ensuring a credible candidate emerges from the process.

Furthermore, Ogbaloi announced a 50% reduction in fees for women aspirants to encourage their participation in the governorship election.

He dismissed allegations of the party receiving N500 million from the state government to feature a novice candidate, asserting that the guidelines for the election align with constitutional and electoral provisions.

The LP’s stance reflects its commitment to conducting a transparent and inclusive governorship primary, with a focus on selecting candidates who can navigate the challenges of political campaigning and governance.