LP To Edo Guber Aspirants: You Lack Capacity To Contest If You Can’t Buy N30m Nomination Form

Before the primaries for the September 21 governorship election in Edo, the Labour Party's state chapter declared that aspirants unable to afford the expression of interest and nomination form fee lack the capacity to run.

The party's state chairman, Ogbalol Kelly, mentioned this in Benin on Wednesday while discussing the N30 million fee charged by the party.

Kelly highlighted that the N30 million nomination fee is the lowest among the major political parties in the election. He explained that besides meeting the qualifications, aspirants must demonstrate the capability to fund campaigns and other election requirements. Kelly emphasized that those unable to afford the fee cannot run for the governorship election.

Funding political parties poses a challenge, and the sale of forms is a major funding source. Kelly stated that the fees, including litigation and logistics costs, are necessary for the party to fulfill its responsibilities during and after elections.

He revealed that two governorship aspirants, a man and a woman, have purchased party forms, urging others to do the same. Kelly encouraged aspirants to make the necessary sacrifices, assuring them of a level playing field.

To promote women's participation, the party reduced the fee for women by 50 percent in the governorship election.

Kelly dismissed allegations that the party received N500 million from the state government to feature a neophyte candidate. He clarified that the party's guidelines align with the constitution and electoral act provisions for the governorship election in the state.