APC Debunks ₦200m Nomination Form Claim, Calls Viral Price List ‘Fake’

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly refuted widespread reports claiming it has fixed exorbitant prices for its 2027 election nomination and expression of interest forms, labeling the information as fake and misleading.

The controversy erupted after a purported price list circulated online, suggesting that the ruling party had set nomination fees at staggering levels. According to the viral claims, the presidential form was priced at ₦200 million, governorship at ₦150 million, Senate at ₦100 million, House of Representatives at ₦70 million, and State House of Assembly at ₦20 million.

However, in an official statement released in Abuja on March 28, the party categorically denied the claims. The statement, signed by Felix Morka, clarified that no decision has been made regarding the sale or pricing of nomination forms for the 2027 general elections.

“The report is false and did not emanate from the party,” the statement read. “No announcement has been made concerning the pricing of forms. The information being circulated is a fabrication and should be disregarded in its entirety.”

The APC urged party members, media organizations, and the general public to ignore the viral claims, describing them as a product of misinformation and deliberate mischief.

Despite the official denial, the development has sparked intense reactions across social media platforms, with many Nigerians expressing skepticism and frustration. Some commenters questioned why the party did not provide clarity on the actual pricing, while others suggested that the viral figures could be a “test run” before a final announcement.

A number of reactions also reflected broader concerns about the cost of political participation in Nigeria. Critics argue that high nomination fees—whether confirmed or not—create barriers that prevent ordinary citizens from contesting elections, effectively limiting political power to wealthy elites.

Others, however, defended the party, noting that nomination form pricing is an internal matter for political parties and that other parties are free to adopt more inclusive or affordable approaches.

The debate has also reignited discussions about transparency and trust in Nigeria’s political system. For some Nigerians, official denials from political actors are often met with doubt, reflecting a deeper credibility gap between leaders and the public.

Additionally, the issue touches on a wider economic context, as many citizens continue to grapple with rising living costs and financial strain. In such an environment, reports of extremely high political nomination fees—even if unverified—tend to trigger strong emotional reactions.

Political analysts note that while parties have the right to set nomination fees, excessive costs could discourage youth participation and weaken democratic inclusiveness. They argue that reforms may be needed to ensure broader access to the political process.

As it stands, the APC maintains that no official figures have been released and that any claims suggesting otherwise are unfounded. The party has reiterated its commitment to providing accurate information when decisions regarding the 2027 elections are formally made.

For now, Nigerians are left watching closely, awaiting clarity on what the eventual nomination process will look like—and whether affordability and inclusiveness will be taken into account.