Constance Ikokwu Advocates for Competence Over Money Politics

Constance Ikokwu, representing the African Democratic Congress (ADC), called on political parties across Nigeria to end money politics and allow competence to determine candidate selection. In her statement titled "End Paywall Leadership," she argued that the current political system is hindered by the high costs of nomination forms, which create an exclusive environment for the wealthy.

Ikokwu emphasized that this financial barrier discourages capable women, young people, and persons with disabilities (PWD) from participating in politics. She proposed that parties should either scrap or significantly reduce the costs of nomination forms to enhance democratic access.

Ikokwu noted that money politics has severely damaged the quality of representation, sidelining visionary candidates who lack financial backing. She stressed that leadership should be determined by character and vision rather than financial capability, advocating for a more inclusive political landscape that allows all capable citizens to contest without financial gatekeeping.