- The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially set the price for its 2027 presidential nomination and expression of interest forms at a total of N100 million.
- The party released a comprehensive timetable on Saturday, April 11, 2026, scheduling the sale of forms to commence on April 25 at the national secretariat in Abuja.
- Political analysts and observers have criticized the move, warning that the high costs further “monetize” Nigeria’s democracy and exclude competent aspirants without deep pockets.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has cleared the air on the financial requirements for aspirants seeking its ticket in the 2027 general elections.
Eko Hot Blog reports that in a detailed schedule of activities signed by the National Organising Secretary, Sulaimon Arugungu, the ruling party fixed the presidential expression of interest form at N30 million and the nomination form at N70 million, totaling N100 million.
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Aspiring governors are expected to pay a combined fee of N50 million, while senatorial hopefuls must cough up N20 million to participate in the primaries.
According to the two-page document, the party’s primary season is set to be a fast-paced affair. The formal notice of election to state chapters is slated for April 20, 2026, with the window for the sale of forms closing just a week after it opens on May 2.
The primary elections are scheduled to follow in quick succession: House of Assembly on May 16, Governorship on May 18, House of Representatives on May 20, and the Senate on May 22.
This aggressive timeline underscores the party’s intent to solidify its lineup well ahead of the general polls.
Category Expression of Interest Nomination Form Total Cost
- Presidential N30,000,000 N70,000,000 N100,000,000
- Governorship N10,000,000 N40,000,000 N50,000,000
- Senate N3,000,000 N17,000,000 N20,000,000
- House of Reps N1,000,000 N9,000,000 N10,000,000
- House of Assembly N1,000,000 N4,000,000 N5,000,000
The announcement has sparked a wave of criticism from civil society and political analysts. Omenazu Jackson, a prominent political analyst, slammed the move as “undemocratic,” arguing that it turns the electoral process into a playground for the “highest bidder.”
Echoing this sentiment, Prof. Kamilu Fage warned that such high entry barriers imply that democracy in Nigeria is no longer “by the people” but rather “for the rich.”
Critics argue that these costs force candidates to seek external funding, often leading to a cycle of political appeasement once they assume office.
Despite the backlash, the APC maintains that its schedule is in full compliance with the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act 2026.
As the deadline for the submission of completed forms on May 4 approaches, the spotlight remains on how many “common man” aspirants will be able to navigate the steep financial terrain of Nigeria’s ruling party.
