*Unveils primary election timetable
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has released its timetable for the 2026 primary elections, pegging its presidential nomination form at N100 million as part of preparations for the 2027 general elections. In the schedule made public on Sunday, the party said the sale of nomination forms will commence on Tuesday, May 5 and end on May 10, 2026, while submission of completed forms is slated for May 11 to May 13. The ADC disclosed that screening of aspirants will hold between May 14 and May 15, with results to be published on May 17. Appeals arising from the screening exercise are scheduled for May 18 and May 19, while the final list of cleared aspirants will be released on May 20. According to the timetable, primary elections will begin on May 21 with contests for State Houses of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senate seats taking place simultaneously at the ward level. Governorship primaries are billed for May 22, while the presidential primary is scheduled for May 25. The process will culminate in a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on May 26, followed by a Special National Convention on May 27 where candidates are expected to be formally ratified. The party also announced a structured fee regime for aspirants seeking elective offices. While the presidential nomination form costs N100 million, governorship aspirants are to pay N50 million, Senate hopefuls N20 million, House of Representatives aspirants N10 million, and State Assembly candidates N3 million. In a bid to encourage broader participation, the ADC introduced concessions for certain groups. Youth aspirants are to enjoy a 50 per cent discount, while women and persons with disabilities will receive a 25 per cent reduction in nomination fees.
