Party Nomination Costs Represent Most Corrupt Phase of Elections

• Kingsley Chinda called party nominations the most corrupt phase of elections.
• Chinda proposed reforms to enhance internal democracy in political parties.
• Concerns were raised about the financial barriers discouraging candidates.
• A new report highlights the need for reducing monetary obstacles in politics.
• Adebowale Olorunmola emphasized inclusivity in electoral participation.

Monetization of nominations raises corruption concerns

The Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Mr. Kingsley Chinda, voiced serious concerns recently about the rampant monetization of political party nominations, labeling it as the most corrupt aspect of the electoral process in Nigeria. During an address held in Abuja on Tuesday, he emphasized that such financial practices not only undermine democracy but also create significant barriers for potential candidates looking to participate. He posed a challenging question to stakeholders: why do nomination forms have to be priced in the millions of naira? This question is likely to stir debate among political analysts and those involved in the electoral process.

Reform proposals to enhance political engagement

Chinda emphasized the importance of internal reforms within political parties aimed at improving democracy and reducing excessive financial burdens that discourage political involvement. His recommendations included the introduction of digital voting systems for party primaries and establishing transparent processes for delegate selections. Moreover, he insisted that political campaign fees should be capped, as currently, the existing laws regarding spending limits—ranging from N70 million to N100 million—are routinely ignored, with little to no accountability for those who breach them. He strongly advocated for the creation of an independent Electoral Offences Commission to address this issue directly, arguing that merely having laws is insufficient without proper enforcement.

Urgent action needed to support political inclusivity

In a related discussion, the Country Director of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, Adebowale Olorunmola, remarked on the rising costs associated with running for election in Nigeria, viewing it as a considerable threat to democratic inclusiveness. He underlined that a democracy flourishes only when a variety of voices can be heard, yet the current financial demands silence many. Furthermore, Olorunmola highlighted findings from the WFD report, which underscores how monetary obstacles disproportionately affect women and minority groups seeking representation. Through this report, he aims to spark essential dialogue and prompt actionable steps to eliminate financial hurdles in the political sector, urging all involved to join in fostering a political climate where every Nigerian’s voice is valued and considered.

In summary, Kingsley Chinda’s pressing remarks on the monetization of party nominations as a cornerstone of corruption underline the need for substantial reforms in Nigeria’s electoral processes. His push for internal democracy within parties, along with stringent enforcement of existing laws, indicates a larger call for systemic changes necessary to encourage wider political participation. As stakeholders engage in these discussions, the contributions from Westminster Foundation for Democracy serve as a timely reminder of the obstacles many face in entering politics, particularly women, and highlight the path forward towards a more equitable political landscape for all Nigerians.