The Bauchi State chapter of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has expressed strong condemnation over the excessive fees imposed on candidates by the Bauchi State Independent Electoral Commission (BASIEC).

These fees are a prerequisite for participation in the upcoming local government chairmanship and councillorship elections, scheduled for August 17, 2024.

The PRP said it considered this move by BASIEC to be unacceptable and has vehemently denounced the exorbitant charges.

The PRP stated on Saturday that, “This draconian move is a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise thousands of youth and women in Bauchi State who are interested in contesting the posts of local government chairmanship and councillorship.”

The party through Hon. Abdulazeez Haruna, State Secretary, added, “We find it unacceptable that BASIEC is charging political parties for forms when even the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) does not charge political parties for forms. It is important to note that INEC provides forms to political parties free of charge.”

“This raises questions about the motives behind BASIEC’s decision to impose such fees. Hence, we urge BASIEC to immediately scrap these fees entirely and provide a level playing field for all political parties to participate in the election,” It further added.

The statement further contained, “Furthermore, we recall that the 2020 local government elections in Bauchi State were marred by blatant manipulation and rigging, which we had vehemently condemned. We will not tolerate a repetition of such an experience.”

“Therefore, we are calling on BASIEC to conduct a credible and fair election that reflects the will of the people and respects the democratic rights of citizens,” It stressed.

The PRP, Bauchi State Chapter, will continue to monitor developments and will not hesitate to take all necessary actions to ensure that our democracy is protected and that the people’s will is respected.