By our reporter
Lagos, Nigeria– As the 2025 Local Government Elections draw closer, a sharp contrast has emerged between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) in Lagos State over nomination fees—raising questions about which party truly represents the interests of the people.
While the PDP has waived nomination fees for aspirants, charging only minimal administrative costs, the Labour Party—under the leadership of State Chairman Pst. Dr. Mrs. Dayo Ekong and National Chairman Julius Abure—has imposed staggering fees, sparking accusations of exploitation.
Labour Party’s Controversial Fees: ₦1.5M for Chairmanship, ₦350K for Councillorship
In a notice signed by Ekong, the LP announced a “reduced” fee structure for aspirants:
-Chairmanship: ₦1.5 million (₦300,000 Expression of Interest + ₦1.2 million Nomination Form)
-Councillorship: ₦350,000 (₦100,000 Expression of Interest + ₦250,000 Nomination Form)
Though the party offers exemptions for women and persons with disabilities, critics argue that the fees remain out of reach for ordinary Nigerians—ironic for a party that claims to champion the masses.
PDP’s Grassroots-Friendly Approach: Free Nomination Forms, Low Admin Fees
Meanwhile, the PDP has adopted a people-first approach:
-Chairmanship: FREE (₦10,000 admin fee)
-Vice Chairmanship: FREE (₦7,500 admin fee)
-Councillorship: FREE (₦5,000 admin fee)
The party only requires payment for LASIEC administrative charges, which are significantly lower than LP’s fees.
Public Outcry: Is Labour Party Exploiting Aspirants?
Political analysts and social commentators have questioned why the Labour Party, which rode to prominence on the wave of youth and mass support during the 2023 elections, is now charging exorbitant fees that could exclude ordinary citizens from participating.
“This is hypocrisy at its peak,” said activist Oluwaseun Adeleke. “A party that claims to be for the poor is now pricing out the same people it claims to represent. Meanwhile, PDP is making it accessible for everyone.”
Labour Party Leadership Under Scrutiny
Critics have accused Pst. Dr. Mrs. Dayo Ekong and Julius Abure of turning the party into a profit-making venture rather than a platform for genuine democratic participation and are demanding refund.
“If LP truly stands with the masses, why are they charging more than PDP?” asked political analyst Tunde Ojo. “This is a clear case of exploitation, and Lagosians should take note.”
As the election season heats up, the contrasting fee structures of both parties have become a major talking point. While the PDP has positioned itself as an inclusive and affordable option, the Labour Party risks alienating its base with high costs that favor the elite.
Will Lagosians reward the PDP’s considerate approach, or will the Labour Party’s brand loyalty prevail despite its questionable financial demands? The 2025 elections may provide the answer.
