IPAC Accuses LASIEC of Breaching Agreement as Nomination Fees Spike Ahead of July 12 LG Polls, Despite Earlier Promise of Reduction or Waiver
The Interparty Advisory Council (IPAC) has condemned the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) over its decision to peg nomination form fees at ₦150,000 for the upcoming local government elections scheduled for July 12.
IPAC accused LASIEC of backtracking on an earlier agreement reached during a consultative meeting with the commission’s Chairperson, Justice Mobolanle Okikiolu-Ighile (retd.), where political parties had proposed either a 50 per cent reduction or a complete waiver of the fees.
The disagreement came to the fore during the maiden edition of News Central’s Chairmen’s Dialogue, held on Thursday at the Radisson Hotel, Ikeja, under the theme “Inside Lagos Politics.” The event brought together representatives from 17 registered political parties to discuss governance and electoral issues in the state.
Speaking to our correspondent, IPAC Chairperson, Temilola Akinade, expressed disappointment over the fee announcement.
“She asked us to advise her on the fees, and we proposed either a 50 per cent reduction or a complete waiver. At the very least, we expected the old rates of ₦100,000 for chairmanship and ₦75,000/₦50,000 for councillorship to remain,” Akinade said. “To our surprise, the new fees were increased instead. I haven’t spoken with her yet due to the event, but I plan to reach out.”
Akinade noted that the move contradicts assurances given by Justice Okikiolu-Ighile during their last meeting, where she apologised for previous lapses in consultation and pledged to work more closely with political parties.
“She even called me afterwards to apologise and promised improved engagement. So I thought things were improving,” Akinade added.
In a public notice issued on Thursday, LASIEC announced the new fees: ₦150,000 for chairmanship aspirants, ₦75,000 for vice chairmanship, and ₦50,000 for councillorship. However, the commission clarified that female aspirants and persons living with disabilities would be exempt from administrative charges.
“All political parties should note that the nomination of a female candidate and persons living with disabilities for any of the elective positions shall attract no administrative fees,” the notice read.
The commission also announced May 22, 2025, as the deadline for submitting nomination forms. Required documents include a nomination form endorsed by registered voters in the constituency, academic credentials, and, where necessary, a letter of disengagement from employment.
Verification of candidates is slated for June 30, while the final list will be published on July 1.
Justice Okikiolu-Ighile urged political parties to conduct their campaigns responsibly, cautioning against incitement and inducement.
“Campaigns must not be based on sectional, ethnic, or religious sentiments. Bribery and other forms of inducement must be avoided,” she warned.
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