— A bold step toward disability-inclusive politics sets a new precedent in Nigerian democracy
In a progressive and commendable move aimed at deepening inclusive governance and eliminating systemic financial obstacles, the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has waived all nomination fees for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) contesting for elective positions in the upcoming Local Government elections slated for July 12, 2025.
The announcement, made public on Tuesday during the unveiling of the party’s electoral guidelines, has sparked widespread praise among advocates for disability rights, civil society organizations, and political analysts who say the policy marks a historic shift toward political equity in Nigeria.
Leveling the Playing Field for All
Under the newly released guidelines, aspirants with disabilities contesting for either chairmanship or councillorship positions across Lagos State’s 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) will receive nomination forms at no cost—a deliberate and thoughtful decision to eliminate the financial burdens that have long excluded PWDs from meaningful political participation.
“This isn’t just policy. It’s a powerful statement—that every voice matters, and leadership must be reflective of the diverse fabric of our society,” said one elated PWD advocate during a press briefing in Ikeja. “For years, we’ve asked for a seat at the table. Now, the APC Lagos chapter is opening the door.”
Cost of Aspirations—Now a Privilege, Not a Barrier
While PWDs enjoy this full waiver, other aspirants will pay a ₦5 million nomination fee for chairmanship positions, along with a ₦500,000 administrative fee. The cost of vying for councillorship positions was not specifically disclosed, but similar scaled charges are expected.
In a partial concession, the party has also granted a 50% reduction in nomination fees for women and youth aspirants, another move applauded as a step in the right direction, though activists argue that more sweeping support is still needed to ensure gender and generational equity in Nigeria’s political ecosystem.
The party emphasized that all aspirants, including those receiving waivers, must present stamped receipts (or verification of their waiver) before collecting their nomination forms.
A Win for Democracy and Representation
This development is seen as a major boost for Nigeria’s democratic maturity, particularly in a country where politics has traditionally remained inaccessible to many, especially persons with disabilities, due to economic and infrastructural exclusion.
According to the 2018 Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, public institutions and political entities are legally mandated to ensure equal opportunities for PWDs. Yet, implementation across various sectors, especially the political arena, has been sluggish and inconsistent—until now.
“This act by the Lagos APC is not only in compliance with the law but goes a step further to inspire the kind of leadership Nigeria needs—one that listens, includes, and evolves,” said Comrade Agbo Christian Obiora, a prominent disability rights advocate and political inclusion expert.
Setting a National Precedent
Observers note that the Lagos APC’s decision could set a powerful national precedent, challenging other state chapters and political parties to re-evaluate their policies toward inclusivity. Already, conversations are brewing within civil society circles about pushing for similar waivers in forthcoming gubernatorial and general elections.
Political observers say this could be the start of a broader wave of reforms, especially with the 2027 general elections on the horizon. If institutionalized, the removal of nomination fees for PWDs could reshape the political landscape, allowing candidates with lived experiences of marginalization to bring authentic perspectives to governance.
From Tokenism to True Inclusion
Unlike past gestures often criticized as performative or symbolic, this move by the Lagos APC appears substantive and strategic. It aligns with global calls for disability-inclusive governance, resonating with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which Nigeria ratified in 2007.
More importantly, it reflects a recognition that inclusive policies must be backed by concrete actions—not just rhetoric.
“We’re not running because we want pity,” said a young aspirant with physical disability from Mushin. “We’re running because we have the passion, the vision, and the competence to serve. This waiver gives us a chance to do just that.”
Countdown to the Polls: July 12 on the Horizon
As the July 12 elections draw near, political watchers will be keeping a close eye on how this bold decision impacts PWD representation at the local government level, the closest tier of governance to the people.
Will Lagos State see its first wave of elected local leaders with disabilities? Will this policy stir a ripple effect across Nigeria’s political terrain?
One thing is clear: the Lagos APC has taken a pioneering step toward reshaping Nigerian politics—one that embraces inclusion not as charity, but as a democratic necessity.
And in doing so, they have extended not just nomination forms, but a powerful message of belonging, equity, and change.
