The African Democratic Congress has rescheduled its primary elections for 2026 and cut the price of nomination forms across all positions, the party announced Tuesday.
Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party's national publicity secretary, released the new timetable following what he called extensive talks with party leaders, aspirants, and stakeholders. The changes are meant to make the primary process more accessible and strengthen internal democracy within the party.
Nomination forms will go on sale from May 1 to May 4, 2026. Completed forms can be submitted between May 6 and May 13, with May 13 as the final deadline. Screening of aspirants follows on May 14 and 15, with results published May 17. The party will hear appeals May 18 and 19 before releasing the final list of cleared aspirants on May 20.
Primaries for state assemblies, the House of Representatives, and the Senate happen on May 21, 2026. Governorship primaries are scheduled for May 22, and the presidential primary for May 23. The National Executive Committee meets May 25, followed by a Special National Convention on May 26.
The revised fees represent significant reductions from previous years. A presidential ticket now costs N90 million, down from higher rates. Governorship forms are N30 million, Senate N10 million, House of Representatives N5 million, and State Houses of Assembly N2 million.
The party retained its discount framework for certain categories. Youth aspirants aged 18 to 35 get a 50 percent discount on forms. Women and persons living with disabilities receive a 25 percent reduction.
Abdullahi said the adjustments reflect the party's commitment to providing an inclusive platform for political participation. He urged all aspirants and stakeholders to note the updated schedule and comply with published guidelines.
