Lai Mohammed Laments Cost of Elections in Nigeria, Calls for Urgent Reform

London, United Kingdom,April 27, 2026

Lai Mohammed, former Minister of Information and Culture, has decried the rising cost of elections in Nigeria, describing it as excessively high and a major barrier to democratic participation.

Speaking at the London School of Economics and Political Science over the weekend, Mohammed said the financial burden of contesting political office in Nigeria far exceeds what is obtainable in many other countries. He warned that the trend poses a serious threat to inclusiveness and fairness in the nation’s democratic process.

According to him, the high cost of nomination forms, campaign financing, and logistics has made it increasingly difficult for capable individuals without substantial financial backing to participate in politics. He noted that this has contributed to limiting political competition to a select few, thereby weakening the democratic system.
Mohammed called for urgent electoral reforms aimed at reducing the cost of participation and ensuring a level playing field for aspirants. He stressed that making the electoral process more affordable and transparent is essential for strengthening democracy and promoting good governance in Nigeria.
The former minister further emphasized the need for stakeholders, including policymakers and electoral bodies, to address systemic challenges within the political framework. He added that reforms would not only encourage broader participation but also enhance public trust in the electoral process.

His remarks add to growing concerns among analysts and political observers about the sustainability of Nigeria’s current electoral system and the need for comprehensive reforms to improve accessibility and credibility.