The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially unveiled its timetable for the conduct of its 2026 primary elections, signaling the party’s readiness for the upcoming electoral cycle.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party emphasized that the schedule reflects its commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and strict adherence to electoral guidelines.
According to the timetable, the sale of nomination forms will begin on May 5 and end on May 10, 2026. Aspirants are expected to submit their completed forms between May 11 and May 13, 2026.
The screening of aspirants is scheduled to take place from May 14 to May 15, while the results of the screening exercise will be published on May 17. Candidates who wish to appeal the outcome of the screening will have the opportunity to do so between May 18 and May 19, with the final list of cleared aspirants set to be released on May 20.
Primary elections are slated to commence on May 21, 2026. Elections into State Houses of Assembly, the House of Representatives, and Senate seats will be conducted simultaneously at the ward level. Governorship primaries are scheduled for May 22, while the presidential primary election will hold on May 25, 2026.
Following the primaries, the party will convene a National Executive Committee meeting on May 26, ahead of a Special National Convention on May 27, where final ratifications of candidates are expected to take place.
The ADC also announced a structured fee regime for nomination forms across all elective positions. The presidential nomination form has been pegged at ₦100 million, while governorship aspirants will pay ₦50 million. Senate forms will cost ₦20 million, House of Representatives ₦10 million, and State House of Assembly ₦3 million.
In a move aimed at promoting inclusivity, the party introduced concessional rates, offering a 50 percent discount for youths, and a 25 percent discount for women and persons with disabilities.
The party called on all members, stakeholders, and aspirants to strictly adhere to the approved timetable and guidelines as preparations intensify for the 2026 general elections.
DDM reports that the release of the timetable marks a significant step in the ADC’s electoral process, setting the stage for what is expected to be a competitive primary season within the party.
