Party cites legal compliance as nomination sales open April 25, screening begins May 6

By Ifeoma Onyekachi

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has revised its timetable for the 2027 general elections, moving its presidential primary election to May 23.

The adjustment was announced on Thursday in Abuja by the party’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, following the APC’s 186th NWC meeting.

Meseko disclosed that the presidential primary, initially scheduled for May 15, was rescheduled as part of broader changes affecting other key activities in the party’s electoral calendar.

He explained that the revision was necessary to align with the amended Constitution, provisions of the 2026 Electoral Act, and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“This is the newest timetable reflecting updated legal and procedural requirements,” he said, adding that the revised schedule has been formally communicated to INEC.

Under the new timetable, the sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination forms will commence on April 25 and close on May 2, while submission of completed forms is fixed for May 4.

Screening of aspirants for all elective positions—from state assemblies to the presidency—will take place between May 6 and May 9, with presidential screening scheduled for May 9. Results of the screening exercise are expected on May 11.

Meseko noted that the primaries would follow a staggered structure covering legislative, governorship and presidential contests across designated dates.

He dismissed claims of restricted access to nomination forms, insisting the process remains open to all qualified aspirants nationwide.

On the mode of primaries, he said the party would adopt both direct and consensus options as permitted by law, stressing that consensus arrangements must reflect agreement among aspirants and stakeholders.

“Where consensus fails or is rejected by any aspirant, the party automatically reverts to direct primary elections,” he stated, adding that state chapters have been empowered to determine the most suitable approach.

In Zamfara State, Meseko said internal congresses would begin with ward, local government and state-level exercises from April 28, with the process expected to conclude by May 3.

He further assured party members that the updated national membership register, including new entrants, has been transmitted to INEC, affirming the party’s readiness for the 2027 primaries.