By Samuel Oyadongha
YENAGOA — The Citizens Platform for Political Inclusion (CPPI), a coalition of citizens, public policy advocates and democratic governance stakeholders, has submitted a petition to the National Assembly seeking amendments to the Electoral Act on the regulation of political party nomination fees.
The group also confirmed that it has issued pre-action notices to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as part of its efforts to obtain judicial clarification on issues relating to nomination fees.
In a statement signed by Osita Chidoka, High Chief Amagbe Denzil Kentebe, Barr. Iniruo Wills, Barr. Ken Lewis-Allagoa, Famous Obebi Famous and Adebiyi Ajayi, the coalition said its actions are aimed at encouraging broader participation in Nigeria’s democratic process.
According to the statement, the petition proposes amendments to the Electoral Act to provide a legal framework for political party nomination fees, enhance transparency in their administration and promote greater access to the electoral process.
The coalition also urged the National Assembly Committees on Electoral Matters to convene a public hearing involving political parties, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organisations and other stakeholders to examine possible reforms.
CPPI said it remains committed to promoting inclusive political participation, strengthening internal party democracy and supporting reforms that enhance Nigeria’s electoral system.
The coalition is affiliated with the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership and the Embassara Foundation.
