ElectHER Launches  Website to Champion Public Advocacy on Independent Candidacy Bill

A leading advocate for inclusive governance, ElectHER, has officially launched a website, www.independentcandidacybill.ng, to advance public awareness and support for the Independent Candidacy Bill.

This development was announced yesterday in a press statement issued by the Head of Programmes for ElectHER, Olarotimi Olaitan. 

The Independent Candidacy Bill, sponsored by  Akin Rotimi, proposes amendments to Sections 65, 106, 131, 177, 7, and 221 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999. 

These amendments aim to allow qualified Nigerians to contest elections without affiliation to political parties, creating leadership opportunities for disenfranchised and underrepresented groups and ensuring a fairer, more inclusive democracy. “This bill represents a bold step toward breaking barriers that have historically excluded capable Nigerians from leadership roles,” the CEO of ElectHER, Ibijoke Faborode, was quoted as saying.

She clarified that Independent candidacy does not undermine political parties, rather  it complements them by fostering a more inclusive and competitive democratic environment.

The bill includes rigorous eligibility criteria to ensure only credible candidates with significant community support can run independently, maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions while empowering citizens.

The newly launched website serves as a one-stop hub for information on the bill, featuring detailed explanations of its provisions and implications, updates on its legislative journey, and tools for citizens to voice their support and participate in the advocacy.

“This is a defining moment in Nigeria’s journey toward a fairer and more inclusive democracy,” Faborode emphasised. 

With the support of partners like the European Union and the Canadian Fund for Local Initiative, she is confident that this platform would unite Nigerians in driving this crucial reform.

The platform aims to educate Nigerians about the Bill, provide real-time updates on its legislative progress, and mobilise public backing for this transformative initiative.

ElectHER urges citizens to visit the new website to learn more, stay informed, and join the movement for change.