Civil rights group, League of Progressive Ambassadors of Nigeria
(LEPAN), has called on the National Assembly to review the amount
political parties charge aspirants vying for elective offices so as to
“afford people, especially those at the grassroots levels the
opportunity to be elected,” into offices.
President of LEPAN, Chukwudi Anyawuocha made the call while speaking at a press briefing held in Lagos.
Anyawuocha also called on the National Assembly to expose those that
stood against the bill promoting youths’ active participation in
politics.
The bill sought to place the age for a candidate wishing to run for
the office of the President at 35; governor at 30; House of
Representatives and State Houses of Assembly at 25.
LEPAN also reflected on the current state of the nation, calling on
the government to improve security, youth employment and unity through
constructive engagement while demanding for essential reforms that will
impact socio-political and economic development in the country.
According to Anyawuocha, “While we commend the Senate for the passage
bill and well-meaning Nigerians like Mrs Oby Ekewesili and Mr Reuben
Abati, including the youths for their resilience, and plead for the
accent of the bill by the president, we demand that the identity of
those that opposed the bill should be made public for all to see.
“We also appeal that the process to review key national issues should
begin. Issues such as restructuring; empowerment of the Independent
National Electoral Commission, INEC to allow to ensure fair play and
credibility in area of funding and accountability to be monitor through
regulatory bodies like Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Independent
Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC).
“For instance, the amount charged for political aspirants should be
reduced to afford people, especially those at the grass root levels the
opportunity to be elected. The imposition of candidates should also be
removed from the picture.”
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