APC opens up zoning, why presidential form goes for N100m

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has reacted to ongoing controversies currently trailing the party, one of which is N100 million nomination fee for presidential aspirants under the party.

Recall that the ruling party on Wednesday announced that its forms for Presidential ticket will be sold at N100 million, governorship N50 million; Senate, N20 million; House of Representatives, N10 million and State Houses of Assembly, N2 million.

Following the announcement, Nigerians had condemned the party for being insensitive to the economic situation of the country.

Speaking on a Channel Television programme, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka rejected claims that the APC is only for the rich, noting that lots of Nigerians still make their money legitimately.

READ ALSO: APC nomination fees: An insulting message to pauperized Nigerians, says Afenifere

And on whether the party is for the rich, he said, “The party is not for the rich. I just told you that for instance, any woman who wants to run for the office of the President is not paying the full amount. The youths as well.”

Asked who advised the party on the price tags, he said, “The party advised the party. The party thinks that…and made the decision that the value put on these forms are justified.”

Speaking further, the ruling party’s mouthpiece explained, “Don’t forget that some of the most special groups of citizens were granted high considerations. Either delivering the nomination forms for free in the case of women and people living with disabilities.

“But youths who are within 25 to 50 also have the advantage of a 50 percent discount for all positions, even the office of the President. We receive that nomination form you talk about at 50%. So, they’ll pay the expression of interest, plus 50 percent of the N70m.”

READ ALSO: APC sets nomination, expression of interest form fees at multiples of PDP

Also speaking on the issue of zoning, Morka said the party is yet to make any decision concerning the zoning of positions ahead of the 2023 general elections.

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Morka also dismissed reports that the ruling party had settled for the indirect primary mode, hours after Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State had hinted as such.

Asked to clarify the mode of primaries, Felix said: “That was not decided today”.

On the issue of zoning, he said: “No. That also was not in conversation today. But in the coming days, I’m sure the party will make a decision, now that the NWC has the authority to decide on those questions”.