The All Progressives Congress in Edo State has collected ₦504 million from the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms for the 2027 State House of Assembly election. A total of 84 aspirants purchased the forms at ₦6 million each to contest for the 24 available constituency seats. The screening of aspirants took place on Saturday at the APC State Secretariat on Ikpokpan Road in the Government Reservation Area of Benin City.
Aspirants from all 18 local government areas arrived as early as 8am for accreditation and verification of documents. The venue saw a heavy presence of party leaders, supporters and security personnel during the exercise. Emmanuel Okoebor, chairman of the party's Screening Committee, said the process was designed to ensure only qualified candidates participated in the primaries.
Okoebor confirmed that serving lawmakers seeking re-election had their documents pre-verified and were not required to appear in person. He emphasized that the screening would follow the party's constitution and electoral guidelines, promising fairness and transparency. "We are committed to ensuring a transparent and credible process that will produce the best candidates for the party," Okoebor said.
Several aspirants commended the organization of the screening, describing it as orderly and professionally conducted. The high number of aspirants reflects growing political competition within the APC ahead of the 2027 election. The party is expected to conduct its primary election in due course to determine the final candidates for the 24 constituencies.
A party collecting ₦504 million from aspirants before selecting a single candidate raises questions about who the APC truly serves. If each of the 84 aspirants paid ₦6 million, the financial barrier to entry could exclude all but the wealthiest. This process may reward financial muscle over competence, especially in a state where many constituents live below the poverty line. The outcome could shape a legislature more accountable to deep pockets than to public need.
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