NDC Begins 2027 Election Preparations, Releases Timetable for Primaries
The Nigeria Democratic Congress has formally commenced preparations for the 2027 general elections with the release of its timetable for the sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms, screening of aspirants, and conduct of primary elections.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the party announced that the sale of Expression of Interest Forms will commence on May 13 and end on May 18, 2026, as interested aspirants prepare to seek elective positions under the party’s platform.
According to the schedule released by the NDC, screening and interviews for aspirants will take place from May 19 to May 21. The exercise is expected to determine the eligibility of aspirants before the issuance of Nomination Forms.
The party stated that the sale of Nomination Forms will run from May 21 to May 23, while completed forms are to be returned no later than May 25, 2026.
It further disclosed that appeals arising from the screening process would be considered between May 25 and 26, while primary elections for various elective offices are scheduled for May 27 and 28. The Presidential Primary Election is expected to hold on May 29 in Abuja.
The NDC explained that aspirants contesting State Houses of Assembly seats would undergo screening in their respective states, while those vying for National Assembly and presidential positions would be screened at the party’s National Headquarters in Abuja. Governorship primaries, the party added, will be conducted at the local government level.
Reaffirming its commitment to internal democracy, the party stated that all aspirants would be required to sign undertakings in line with its code of conduct and operational guidelines.
The party also announced plans to adopt the “open secret ballot” system during its primaries, noting that the method is intended to strengthen transparency, fairness, and credibility in the emergence of candidates.
As part of the guidelines released, the NDC approved ₦1 million for the Expression of Interest Form and ₦1.5 million for the Nomination Form for State House of Assembly aspirants. House of Representatives aspirants are expected to pay ₦2 million and ₦4 million respectively, while Senate aspirants will pay ₦3 million and ₦5 million.
For governorship aspirants, the party fixed the fees at ₦10 million for the Expression of Interest Form and ₦20 million for the Nomination Form, while presidential aspirants are to pay ₦20 million and ₦40 million respectively.
The party further announced concessions for female aspirants and persons living with disabilities, stating that women would pay half of the approved fees, while PWDs would pay 25 percent across all categories.
The statement, jointly signed by Moses Cleopas Zuwoghe and Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to a transparent and credible process capable of producing qualified candidates for the 2027 elections.
Benita Ibrahim
