Nigeria’s major political parties are ramping up preparations for the 2027 general elections, with timelines, fees, and internal dynamics beginning to take shape.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has scheduled its presidential primary for May 16, 2026, and governorship primaries for May 23. According to its timetable released by spokesperson Felix Morka, aspirants will pay hefty fees: ₦100 million for presidential forms, ₦50 million for governorship, ₦20 million for Senate, and ₦10 million for House of Representatives. State Assembly aspirants will pay ₦6 million. However, women, youths, and persons with disabilities are eligible for discounts on nomination forms.
Form sales will take place between April 25 and May 2 at the party’s Abuja headquarters, with submission closing on May 4. Screening exercises are slated for early to mid-May, while legislative primaries will run between May 18 and May 21. The party has pledged to ensure a transparent and credible process.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed January 16, 2027, for presidential and National Assembly elections, and February 6, 2027, for governorship and state assembly polls. Campaigns will begin in August and September 2026, respectively, while party primaries nationwide are expected to hold between April 23 and May 30, 2026.
Within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), leaders say a new timetable for primaries has been adopted, although details are yet to be fully released. The party claims it has moved past its internal crisis, despite ongoing factional disputes involving key figures like Nyesom Wike and Tanimu Turaki. While one faction insists the party is now united and focused, opposing voices continue to challenge the legitimacy of recent meetings and decisions.
The PDP leadership has emphasized reconciliation, internal reforms such as electronic membership registration, and strict adherence to electoral guidelines as part of its strategy moving forward. Wike, speaking at the meeting, reaffirmed his loyalty to the party and urged transparency to rebuild trust.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), on its part, is exploring a consensus method for selecting its presidential candidate, citing cost efficiency. Party spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi noted that while direct primaries remain an option, consensus is the preferred route.
Overall, political activities are intensifying across parties as they position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections, even as internal disagreements and strategic choices continue to shape the landscape.
