A prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dr. Aminu Abdurrahman Anas Warawa, has sounded an alarm over the party’s new fee structure, warning that “exorbitant” nomination costs are betraying the party’s core mission to include young people in governance.
Speaking at a media briefing titled “Bamu Yarda Ba” (We Do Not Agree) on Thursday, May 7, 2026, Dr. Anas Warawa criticized the ADC leadership for aligning itself with the “monetized politics” practiced by the larger parties like the APC and PDP.
The “Restrictive” Pricing Debate
The chieftain’s outcry follows the ADC’s recent release of its revised 2026 primary timetable and fees. While the party did slash some costs following public backlash, Dr. Anas argues they are still prohibitive for the average youth:
| Position | Current Revised Fee (2026) | Dr. Anas’s Proposal |
| Presidential | ₦90 Million (was ₦100m) | ₦10 Million |
| Governorship | ₦30 Million (was ₦50m) | ₦5 Million |
| Senate | ₦10 Million (was ₦20m) | ₦3 Million |
| House of Reps | ₦5 Million (was ₦10m) | ₦1 Million |
| State Assembly | ₦2 Million (was ₦3m) | ₦500,000 |
“Politics is Not for Profit”
Dr. Anas Warawa, a former Kano State deputy governorship candidate, highlighted the moral conflict of the new prices:
- Betrayal of Ideals: He noted that the ADC was built as a “credible alternative” for ordinary Nigerians. By setting the presidential form at ₦90 million, he argues the party is effectively telling talented youths without deep pockets that they are not welcome.
- The 50% Youth Discount: Although the ADC offers a 50% discount for aspirants aged 18–35, Dr. Anas maintains that ₦45 million (the discounted presidential rate) is still an impossible sum for most young leaders.
- Weeding Out the Best: “Why should the space be so restrictive? Party primaries are no longer viewed as fair contests of ideas… instead, they are characterized by exclusion,” he remarked.
The Official Defense
The ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, has defended the fees, stating they were set after “broad-based consultations” and are necessary to ensure the party can organize effective, credible primaries ahead of 2027. He emphasized that the discounts for youths, women, and persons with disabilities remain the most inclusive in the country.
