Nigeria’s Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, says it has reduced processing fees for those taking part in the April elections. The move follows widespread criticism of the fees as being too high. INEC had introduced the fees in early January, saying they were needed to screen political candidates. The fees ranged from $350 and $3,600.
Critics claimed they were unconstitutional and unprecedented in the country’s history. Newer political parties called the fees a “ploy” favoring the wealthier parties and well-established politicians.
As a result, twenty-four newly registered parties took the matter to court. But before the court could act, INEC lowered the fees.
English to Africa reporter Paul Okolo has details from Lagos. Click above links to download or listen to report.