Politics

AAC Demands Immediate Removal of Excessive Fees to Ensure Fairness in Benue LGA Elections

Published by Tope Fakinlede on September 7th, 2024.

AAC Demands Immediate Removal of Excessive Fees to Ensure Fairness in Benue LGA Elections

The African Action Congress (AAC) has urged for the immediate removal of excessive fees imposed on candidates for the upcoming Local Government Area (LGA) elections in Benue State, scheduled for October 5.

In a statement issued on Friday, the AAC criticized the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC) for demanding N500,000 from chairman candidates and N250,000 from councillorship candidates. Additionally, candidates are required to pay N115,000 and N90,000 respectively for handling charges.

Rex I. Elanu, Chairman of the AAC, has called on Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia to intervene and revoke these charges, describing them as unfair and detrimental to democratic principles.

Elanu condemned the fees as a form of extortion that undermines fairness and equity. He remarked, “In light of recent demands by Nigerians for improved governance and the Supreme Court’s ruling on LGA autonomy, we expect a governor who has garnered significant support from the grassroots to promote fairness within democratic institutions.”

He criticized the BSIEC’s fee structure, comparing it unfavorably to the AAC’s practice of providing nomination forms free of charge and avoiding excessive administrative fees. The AAC believes these exorbitant charges are designed to deter participation from candidates not backed by significant financial resources.

The AAC has called on Governor Alia to act promptly to ensure a fair and equitable election process. “Given the recent replacement of the BSIEC Chairman, we hope the governor will also address this issue to ensure a level playing field,” Elanu added.

The AAC remains committed to its pro-masses and socialist values, advocating for a democratic and well-governed Benue State.