"Why Political Office Is Out of Reach for Ordinary Nigerians "– Ali Baba Speaks Out

 

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Veteran comedian Ali Baba has raised eyebrows with a bold exposé on the staggering financial cost of running for political office in Nigeria. 

During a recent appearance on the "Outside the Box" podcast, he revealed that contesting for key political positions has become so expensive that it now fuels the country’s deep-rooted corruption.

According to the entertainment icon, winning a Senate seat could cost as much as ₦1.2 billion, while a seat in the House of Representatives hovers around ₦1 billion. 

For State House of Assembly positions, hopefuls may need up to ₦500 million. Ali Baba claimed that governorship ambitions are even more financially draining, with some southern states like Rivers and Delta requiring ₦20 ₦25 billion to secure victory. In the north, he noted, costs could range from ₦4 billion to ₦6 billion depending on the state.

He argued that the high financial stakes make politics more of a business investment than a service to the people. “When politicians enter office, their priorities shift from public interest to personal gain,” Ali Baba warned. 

He suggested that elected officials only support education or infrastructure projects when such efforts promise kickbacks or electoral leverage.

The comedian’s comments have sparked a conversation online about the barriers to entry for young or financially limited citizens who genuinely want to serve. Many Nigerians see the system as one that discourages integrity and rewards wealth over merit.

Ali Baba’s revelations are not new, but his status in the entertainment and political circles gives his words significant weight. 

As Nigeria continues to grapple with corruption and governance challenges, his remarks add to growing calls for electoral finance reform and transparency in political funding.

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