Will you allow people to run for office without belonging to a political party?
Yes. I will introduce independent candidacy with clear and fair regulations, so qualified Nigerians can run for public office without belonging to a political party. To keep it credible, we will require a non-refundable deposit like party-sponsored candidates pay, require independent candidates to meet all constitutional qualifications for the office, set clear verification for signatures and nominations, and ensure equal access to the ballot and fair treatment in the process.
Where this comes from
p. 24 2.2. ELECTORAL REFORM ( UNDER GOVERNANCE) Party Manifesto 2027-2031 2026-10-05 ›
● Treat coordinated corruption schemes that weaken critical sectors, such as energy, infrastructure, and public finance, as threats to national economic security
1. Introduce independent candidacy with clear and fair regulations. Specifics: We will allow qualified Nigerians to run for public office without belonging to a political party, while putting in place safeguards to ensure credibility, seriousness, and a level playing field.
Details:
● Introduce a non-refundable deposit requirement, comparable to what party-sponsored candidates pay, to ensure only serious candidates contest ● Require independent candidates to meet all existing constitutional and legal qualifications for the office they seek ● Establish clear verification processes for signatures and nominations to prevent abuse of the system ● Provide equal access to the ballot and fair treatment in electoral processes, ensuring independent candidates can compete credibly