NDC releases 2027 primary election timetable, fixing N60m presidential forms and outlining full nomination and screening schedule
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has released its timetable for the conduct of its primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections, fixing N60 million as the total cost for presidential nomination and expression of interest forms.
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The announcement was made on Tuesday in Abuja by the party’s National Chairman, Moses Cleopas, who confirmed that the sale of nomination forms will run from May 13 to May 18, 2026, as part of the party’s internal electoral process.
Cleopas explained that aspirants are expected to participate in a screening exercise and present relevant credentials and supporting documents in line with party guidelines.
He added that the NDC primary election timetable outlines a structured sequence of activities leading to the selection of candidates for various elective positions.
According to the schedule, screening exercises will take place ahead of the sale of forms, while completed forms must be submitted on or before May 25, 2026.
Appeals arising from the screening process will be heard on May 25 and 26, with primary elections for different offices scheduled for May 27 and 28, 2026.
The presidential primary election is fixed for May 29, 2026, in Abuja, marking the climax of the party’s nomination process.
Cleopas further stated that state House of Assembly aspirants will be screened at state level, while National Assembly and presidential aspirants will undergo screening at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.
He also noted that all aspirants will be required to sign an undertaking to comply with the party’s code of conduct to ensure discipline and fairness.
The party said it would adopt an “open secret ballot” system for its primaries, which it described as a step to strengthen transparency, credibility and internal democracy.
Under the approved fee structure, House of Assembly aspirants will pay N2.5 million, House of Representatives aspirants N6 million, and senatorial aspirants N8 million.
Governorship hopefuls are expected to pay N30 million, while presidential aspirants will pay N20 million for expression of interest and N40 million for nomination forms.
Female aspirants and persons living with disabilities will receive fee reductions of 50 per cent and 25 per cent respectively across all categories.
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The party maintained that the structure reflects its commitment to a credible and competitive selection process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
