Ibraheem Abdullateef, a representative of Kwara central in the Nigerian Youth Parliament (NYP), has called on political parties in Nigeria to reduce the fees of their nomination forms by 60 percent for youths.
The youth representative, in a statement on Sunday, said the “crazy” cost of nomination forms of the two major political parties in Nigeria is “uneconomical and undemocratic”.
According to Abdullateef: “We have seen in the past few months a great deal of debate over the amendment of the electoral act,”
“Regardless of one’s political leaning, it is the most patriotic thing to support to strengthen our democracy.
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“I urge President Muhammadu Buhari and the national assembly to find a common ground in bringing the bill to life urgently.
However, there is one more thing for young Nigerians to make a priority as we move closer to the 2023 general elections: the crazy fees for nomination forms.
“It is uneconomical, undemocratic, a stumbling block to the national agenda for inclusion and peace. This must form a strong discussion point for the political parties, media, CSOs, and other stakeholders.
“There should be reductions of these fees for aspirants under 35 years below from bottom office to the top. It should be reviewed now. No party must retain those crazy tables from 2019.
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“For clarity, both the APC and PDP constitution gives women a 50% cut, but they continue to alienate the youths. Youths, especially, should get at least a 60% reduction. It is time to put real action to the agenda of youth inclusion in politics and leadership.”
