The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in Kano has procured West African Examination Council (WAEC) and National Examination Council (NECO) scratch cards for the Screening Committee.

This initiative is aimed at verifying the authenticity and integrity of the secondary school certificates of candidates running for the local government council elections, set to take place on November 30, 2024.

In an interview with the press on Tuesday, Alhaji Hashim Dungurawa, the state chairman of the NNPP, revealed the party’s new measures.

“We are acquiring WAEC and NECO scratch cards to rigorously verify the academic credentials of all candidates.

Additionally, we will check their records for any history of drug use or criminal activity,” Dungurawa explained. “We are committed to ensuring that our candidates possess the character and integrity required to lead effectively.”

The party has also announced the nomination fees for various positions. The fee for Chairmen has been set at N500,000, while the Expression of Interest costs N100,000.

For Councillors, the nomination form fee is N150,000, and the Expression of Interest fee is N50,000.

This approach reflects the party’s sensitivity to the economic challenges currently faced by the nation under Bola Tinubu’s government.

Dungurawa urged all candidates to resign from their civil service roles by the end of August 2024 to comply with the State Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) guidelines.

“We are taking decisive action to prevent any loopholes in our party’s processes. Our goal is to offer Kano’s citizens leaders with a solid background who can effectively address their economic and social issues,” he said.

The Chairman also praised the KANSIEC fees, which require candidates to pay N10 million and N5 million for Chairmen and Councillors, respectively.

He believes this will lead to better management of local governments and ensure that only credible candidates are in the running.

“This fee structure will improve the quality of governance and ensure that only qualified individuals contest for these positions,” Dungurawa added. “Our government is focused on state development, and education remains a top priority as it is crucial for progress.”