The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Borno State has cut nomination form fees for women and persons with disabilities by 50 percent ahead of the December 13 local government elections.
APC State Chairman, Alhaji Bello Ayuba, announced the decision on Friday in Maiduguri. He said the move came after consultations with party leaders in Katsina and Lagos States.
Ayuba said the reduction aims to promote inclusivity and encourage wider participation in the polls.
“Councillorship forms for women and persons with disabilities will now cost ₦250,000, while chairmanship forms will cost ₦1 million,” Ayuba explained. “This change reflects our commitment to inclusive politics.”
He noted that the initiative shows the APC’s effort to create equal opportunities for all members, regardless of financial capacity.
“We want every member to have a fair chance to contest. Inclusivity and fairness remain key principles of our party,” he said.
Ayuba also assured aspirants that the party would hold free and transparent primaries. He revealed that the sale of forms had ended, and screening for 27 chairmanship and 320 councillorship aspirants would begin soon.
He added that even if only one aspirant contests, the party will still hold an affirmation exercise to confirm acceptance by members.
“After screening and affirmation, we will forward the approved candidates to the Borno State Independent Electoral Commission (BORSEC),” he said.
The chairman said committees would operate in all local government areas to ensure transparency and full compliance with party rules.
Ayuba urged members to stay peaceful, united, and disciplined throughout the election process.
“We are determined to deliver credible elections and uphold internal democracy. Our goal is to present capable candidates who will serve effectively,” he stated.
Political observers have praised the APC’s decision. They said it promotes equal participation and strengthens grassroots inclusion ahead of the upcoming elections.
