By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Nigeria Democratic Congress has released its timetable for nomination forms, screening, and primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party announced the schedule in Abuja on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. It also fixed the presidential nomination form at N60 million and adopted an open secret ballot system for its primaries to ensure transparency and credibility.
NDC Sets Nomination Fees for Aspirants
The party stated that presidential aspirants would pay N60 million. The amount covers N20 million for the Expression of Interest form and N40 million for the nomination form.
Governorship aspirants will pay N30 million. This includes N10 million for the Expression of Interest form and N20 million for the nomination form.
In addition, senatorial aspirants will purchase forms for N8 million. House of Representatives aspirants will pay N6 million, while State House of Assembly aspirants will pay N2.5 million.
Sale of Forms Begins May 13
According to the timetable, the sale of nomination forms starts on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. The process will end on Monday, May 18, 2026.
The party also scheduled the screening and interview of aspirants from Tuesday, May 19, to Thursday, May 21, 2026.
Furthermore, the NDC directed all aspirants to appear with valid credentials and supporting documents during the screening exercise.
Appeals and Primary Elections Schedule
The party disclosed that appeals arising from the screening exercise would hold on May 25 and 26, 2026.
Meanwhile, primary elections for various elective offices will take place on May 27 and 28. The presidential primary election is scheduled for May 29, 2026, in Abuja.
The NDC also confirmed that governorship primaries would hold at the local government level.
NDC Adopts Open Secret Ballot System
The party assured members and aspirants of a transparent and democratic process throughout the primaries.
Consequently, the NDC adopted the open secret ballot system to strengthen credibility, fairness, and internal democracy.
The party further stated that all aspirants must sign an undertaking in line with its guidelines and code of conduct.
Party Leaders Sign Statement
The statement was jointly signed by the National Chairman of the party, Moses Cleopas Zuwoghe, and the National Secretary, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu.
