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By Efe Anaughe
The introduction of a ₦10 million “development levy” by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for aspirants seeking elective positions, from the House of Representatives upward, raises serious concerns about equity, inclusion, and the true intention behind the policy.
Beyond being presented as an administrative or development requirement, the levy appears to serve as a covert financial screening mechanism capable of silently eliminating credible aspirants, especially women and emerging leaders, who may possess competence, capacity, and grassroots support but lack access to excessive financial resources.
Democracy should promote participation based on vision, competence, leadership capacity, and service not the size of one’s bank account. Policies of this nature discourage inclusive political participation and create an uneven playing field that favors only the financially privileged.
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Female aspirants are particularly affected, as many already navigate structural, economic and political disadvantages within the system. Imposing such an excessive levy further weakens efforts toward gender inclusion and political representation.
For transparency, fairness, and public confidence, the NDC should immediately reconsider and scrap the ₦10 million levy and refund all payments or part-payments already made by female aspirants and other affected candidates.
Political parties must strengthen democracy by opening doors for credible participation, not by introducing financial barriers that indirectly suppress voices and aspirations.
•Dr Efe Anaughe, a legal practitioner and the Convener, Women Active in Politics, writes from Lagos.
