The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC) has raised concerns over the N30 million expression of interest forms being charged by the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the upcoming Ebonyi local government elections, warning that such high fees could encourage the looting of LGA funds in the future.
Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, National President of OYC, expressed concern on Tuesday, alleging that the high fees could exclude youths and individuals of integrity from contesting in the elections.
He called on Governor Francis Nwifuru to ensure a level playing field and maintain an open-door policy for all aspirants in the local government and councillorship polls.
Igboayaka proposed that nomination fees for Chairmanship and Councillorship positions be reduced to N150,000 and N50,000, respectively.
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He warned that candidates who pay exorbitant fees may be more likely to embezzle LGA funds once in office.
“Reducing the Chairmanship and Councillors nomination fees to make it accessible to Ebonyi youths will foster healthy competition, which enhances credibility and competence,” he said.
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He added, “Paying such an exorbitant amount to secure a local government chairmanship position clearly indicates that young individuals who desire to serve as local government executives may be inclined to misappropriate LGA funds if elected.”
Igboayaka also cautioned against any deliberate attempts to sideline Ebonyi youths or undermine the state’s economic and political development.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
