The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has disclosed the fees for its nomination forms ahead of nationwide party congresses. On Wednesday, the party announced the pricing structure for forms across all levels, from ward to national positions. A statement released via the party's verified X account specified that forms for Polling Unit and Community Working Committees would be free, a move framed as support for grassroots inclusion. For other positions, fees range from N20,000 at the ward level to N50,000 at the local government level, N200,000 at the state level, and N1,000,000 for National Working Committee slots. The party confirmed that all forms are obtainable at the NDC National Headquarters, with payments directed to a designated bank account. The congresses will cover leadership positions across the party's structure, though no date has been set for the events.
The NDC's decision to set a one-million-naira fee for its National Working Committee form places power firmly in the hands of those who can afford access, not those with the deepest community roots. While the free forms for polling unit and community committees create an image of inclusivity, the steep cost at higher levels suggests a party structure shaped more by financial gatekeeping than democratic openness.
This pricing model reflects a broader trend in Nigerian political parties, where nomination forms double as fundraising tools. The NDC's N1 million fee for national positions aligns with practices seen in larger parties, where aspirants are expected to self-fund or attract financiers before campaigning even begins. By making lower-tier forms free, the party can claim accessibility while maintaining elite control at the top.
Ordinary party members in low-income communities may find themselves represented by individuals whose primary qualification is financial muscle, not grassroots connection. Aspirants without personal wealth or patronage networks are effectively sidelined, limiting internal democracy.
This mirrors the national political landscape, where party leadership and candidacy are increasingly tied to economic capacity rather than public mandate.
