In the wake of the Nigerian 2023 general election, Hon. Aisha despite her significant contribution to national building and widespread impact within her constituency, due to internal party conflict was not given the party ticket to contest in the 2023 elections, thereby joining a long list of legislators who did not make it back to the 10th assembly. Imagine she had the opportunity to contest as an Independent Candidate based on her performance and popularity across her community? Imagine every Nigerian can run for elections based on meritocracy? Just imagine the socio-economic impact of a more stable and inclusive political landscape in Nigeria... 
 
We are championing the advocacy and push for the passage of the Independent Candidacy Bill at the 10th National and State Assembly, and calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Assent this legacy bill. We urge you to sign and share this petition as a call to action towards the adoption of this landmark legislation... 
 
Why This Bill Matters 
Nigeria’s current political system only allows citizens to contest for public office through political party sponsorship. This limits the ability of individuals who wish to serve their communities but prefer not to run under a political party platform. The Independent Candidacy Bill seeks to address this, by enabling individuals to run for office independently, allowing more voices to participate in shaping our future. 
 
The Challenge 
The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria does not currently permit independent candidates to contest in elections. This limits the range of choices available to voters and restricts individuals who are passionate about serving their communities but do not wish to affiliate with political parties. A broader range of candidates could foster greater representation and help address local issues in new and innovative ways. 
 
The Proposed Solution 
The Independent Candidacy Bill offers a solution by proposing an amendment to sections 7 (amendments: 4a and 4B),65, 106, 131 and 177, 221A (3), 221A (4) and 221B of the Nigerian Constitution, this proposed legislation aims to dismantle barriers that restrict political participation to only those affiliated with political parties. By enabling individuals to contest elections independently, the bill seeks to enhance the candidate pool, encourage merit-based representation, and inject fresh ideas into governance, fostering greater participation in the democratic process. 
 
What Success Looks Like 
If the Independent Candidacy Bill is passed, more Nigerians will have the opportunity to participate in the political process, leading to greater representation across different communities. This change would provide voters with a wider selection of candidates to choose from and encourage fresh perspective and innovation to emerge at all levels of government. This Bill will increase inclusivity, allowing underrepresented groups to have a greater voice in politics. By challenging monopolies, the bill promotes healthier competition, strengthens grassroots movements, and enhances accountability. Additionally, this reform aligns Nigeria with global democratic practices, advancing the nation’s electoral system toward greater inclusivity and representation. 
 
How You can Support the Bill 
Your signature can make a difference in bringing about positive change to Nigeria’s electoral system, now is the time to act! By supporting the Independent Candidacy Bill, we can help create a more open and inclusive political space.

Please sign and share this petition to call on your legislators at the national and state assemblies to support the passage of the Independent Candidacy Bill, and more importantly to call on His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to Assent the Independent Candidacy Bill when presented. 
 
Learn More About The Independent Candidacy Bill: 
Visit: www.independentcandidacybill.ng

Email: secretariat.icbillng@elect-her.org