By Ayo Kehinde
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially unveiled its timetable and guidelines for the conduct of its 2026 primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections, pegging its presidential nomination form at ₦100 million and fixing May 25, 2026, for the presidential primary.
In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the timetable underscores its commitment to internal democracy, orderliness, transparency and strict compliance with the Electoral Act.
According to the schedule released by the opposition party, the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms will commence from May 5 to May 10, 2026, while the submission of completed forms is slated for May 11 to May 13, 2026.
The party said the screening of aspirants will be held between May 14 and May 15, while the publication of screening results is fixed for May 17, 2026. Appeals arising from the screening exercise will be entertained from May 18 to May 19, with the final list of cleared aspirants expected to be released on May 20.
The ADC further disclosed that primary elections for State Houses of Assembly, House of Representatives and Senate seats will be held simultaneously at the ward level on May 21, 2026.
Governorship primaries are scheduled for May 22, while the presidential primary election will take place on May 25, 2026.
The party also announced that its National Executive Committee meeting will be held on May 26, followed by a Special National Convention on May 27, 2026, where all candidates emerging from the primaries will be formally ratified ahead of the 2027 elections.
As part of the approved fee structure for aspirants seeking elective offices on the party’s platform, the ADC fixed the presidential nomination form at ₦100 million, while governorship aspirants are to pay ₦50 million.
The Senate nomination form was pegged at ₦20 million, the House of Representatives at ₦10 million, while aspirants seeking seats in State Houses of Assembly are expected to pay ₦3 million.
The party, however, announced concessions to encourage broader participation among underrepresented groups.
Under the arrangement, youths will enjoy a 50 percent discount on nomination forms, while women and persons with disabilities will receive a 25 percent concession.
Abdullahi said the measures were designed to promote inclusivity and deepen participation in the democratic process.
“We call on all our members, stakeholders and aspirants to adhere strictly to the outlined schedule and guidelines”, the statement added.
