The Anambra State Government has issued a stern warning to political parties and candidates ahead of the upcoming local government elections, threatening a crackdown on any party that fails to comply with the stipulated ₦50 million campaign fee requirement.
Speaking during a press briefing in Awka on Tuesday, the Chairman of the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC), Dr. Sylvester Ezeoke, said the directive was in line with efforts to sanitize the political process and ensure a level playing field for all contestants.
Dr. Ezeoke stated that the ₦50 million non-refundable campaign fee was approved by the state government to cover administrative and logistical costs associated with the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections.
“We are committed to conducting transparent elections. However, political parties must abide by the rules. The ₦50 million fee is not a revenue-generating mechanism but a necessary cost to ensure orderliness and integrity throughout the process,” he said.
The ANSIEC chairman warned that any party or candidate that flouts the directive risks disqualification and possible legal action. According to him, the Commission will not hesitate to invoke the full weight of the law against defaulters.
Several political actors have, however, expressed concern over the amount, with some describing it as prohibitive and a barrier to political participation, especially for smaller parties and independent candidates.
In response, Dr. Ezeoke insisted that the fee was agreed upon after consultations with key stakeholders, and assured that mechanisms would be put in place to ensure transparency in how the funds are utilized.
He further disclosed that the Commission would begin monitoring party activities closely to identify violations early. “We are not just waiting for the election day. We will track campaign activities, financial disclosures, and ensure parties adhere strictly to the electoral guidelines,” he added.
The development comes as political activities in Anambra gather momentum, with several aspirants declaring interest in chairmanship and councillorship positions across the state’s 21 local government areas.
Observers say the enforcement of the campaign fee rule could either promote discipline in the political space or stoke tensions, especially if perceived as a tool to sideline opposition voices.
As the electoral season draws closer, all eyes are now on the Anambra State Government and ANSIEC to see how firmly and fairly the policy will be implemented.
