General Elections 2027: NWDF Criticises ADC for Eliminating Free Nomination Form for Female Aspirants

Summary: The Nigerian Women Development Forum (NWDF) has criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its decision to replace free nomination forms for female aspirants with a 25 per cent discount. The forum described the move as a setback for women’s political participation ahead of the 2027 elections.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has come under criticism following its decision to reduce concessions for women and persons with disabilities seeking nomination forms ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued by the Nigeria Women Development Forum (NWDF), the group described the policy as a setback for women’s political participation and democratic inclusion.

The Nigeria Women Development Forum refers to various initiatives aimed at empowering women, including the National Women Leaders Forum (NWLF) for political participation, the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development for policy and skills training, and grassroots groups like the Ablegod Women Development Forum focused on agriculture. These forums focus on bridging gender gaps, economic empowerment and increasing women’s representation in leadership roles.

According to the statement signed by Ms Dura Oladipo, Convener of NWDF, the ADC had previously been recognised for granting free nomination forms to female aspirants as part of efforts to encourage greater women’s participation in governance. However, the forum said the party’s decision to replace the initiative with a 25 per cent discount represents a departure from its earlier stance on inclusion.

“What makes this even more shameful is that ADC now appears more hostile to women’s inclusion than even the ruling party it constantly criticises. While other political parties are expanding opportunities for women through free nomination forms or at least 50% concessions, ADC has chosen the path of exclusion, elitism, and political intimidation through financial barriers,” the statement reads in part.

They noted that the policy could discourage women from contesting elective positions, particularly amid the current economic challenges facing many Nigerians. The forum also criticised the level of female representation within the party’s recent congresses.

The group called on the ADC to review its nomination form policy and restore free forms for female aspirants, stating that such measures would demonstrate a stronger commitment to inclusive political participation.