The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress has unveiled a significant adjustment to its election timetable and schedule of activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, introducing new dates for its primary contests and related processes.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the NWC meeting held at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, the Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, explained that the changes were necessary to align with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act 2026, and updated guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Under the revised schedule, the party’s presidential primary, initially planned for May 15, has now been moved to Saturday, May 23. The adjustment also affects timelines for other elective positions, reflecting a broader restructuring of the party’s electoral calendar.
The APC further confirmed that expression of interest and nomination forms would be made available to all eligible party members seeking to contest for various offices, dismissing earlier speculation about restrictions.
Accompanied by the national leader of persons with disabilities, Tolu Bankole, Meseko disclosed that the sale of nomination forms will commence on April 25 and close on May 2, 2026. Aspirants are expected to submit their completed forms no later than May 4.
The screening exercise for all aspirants, covering positions from State Houses of Assembly to the presidency, is scheduled to run between May 6 and May 9. Specifically, presidential aspirants will undergo screening on May 9, while the results for all categories will be released on May 11.
Primary elections will begin with the House of Representatives on May 15, followed by Senate primaries on May 18. Elections for State Houses of Assembly are set for May 20, while governorship primaries will take place on May 21. The sequence will conclude with the presidential primary on May 23.
Addressing concerns about inclusivity, Meseko reiterated that the process is open to all party members, stating, “I am here to inform all party faithful and aspirants that expression of interest and nomination forms for all aspirants seeking offices under the All Progressives Congress are open.”
On the method of conducting the primaries, he explained that the party would utilise both direct and consensus approaches, as permitted under the Electoral Act, but stressed that consensus arrangements must have the full agreement of all aspirants involved.
“Where there is consensus and an aspirant does not agree, it automatically reverts to direct primaries. The consensus option must be agreed to by all aspirants; if not, the consensus option reverts to direct primaries,” Meseko said.
The NWC also turned attention to internal party matters in Zamfara State, announcing that ward, local government, and state congresses will commence on April 28. Ward congresses are scheduled for April 30, with state congresses and appeals expected to conclude by May 3.
In addition, the party confirmed that its updated membership register, including newly registered members, has already been submitted to INEC, signaling readiness for the forthcoming primaries.
Meseko assured that the APC is fully prepared for the electoral process, expressing confidence in the party’s ability to conduct a smooth and credible primary election across all levels.
What you should know
The APC’s revised timetable signals intensified preparations for the 2027 elections and reflects efforts to ensure compliance with electoral laws and INEC guidelines.
By shifting the presidential primary and adjusting other key dates, the party aims to streamline its internal processes and avoid legal or procedural disputes. The decision to allow both direct and consensus primaries, subject to aspirants’ agreement, highlights internal flexibility but also underscores the need for unity within the party.
Additionally, the early release of schedules and submission of membership data indicate strategic positioning ahead of increasing political competition nationwide.
