The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has released its timetable for the 2026 primary elections, setting out key dates and guidelines for aspirants seeking to contest various political offices under the party.
The announcement was made on Sunday in a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi. According to the party, the timetable is designed to ensure transparency, orderliness, and full compliance with electoral rules as Nigeria prepares for another election cycle.
The timetable begins with the sale of nomination forms, which is scheduled to take place from May 5 to May 10, 2026. Aspirants are expected to purchase their forms within this period and complete the necessary documentation.
Submission of completed forms will follow immediately, taking place between May 11 and May 13, 2026. This will be followed by the screening of aspirants from May 14 to May 15.
The party said the results of the screening exercise will be published on May 17, giving candidates clarity on their status ahead of the primaries.
For those who may have concerns or objections, an appeals process has been scheduled for May 18 and May 19. After this, the final list of cleared aspirants will be released on May 20.
Primaries to Begin May 21
According to the timetable, the primary elections will begin on May 21, 2026. On that day, elections for State Houses of Assembly, the House of Representatives, and Senate seats will be conducted simultaneously at the ward level across the country.
The governorship primaries are scheduled for May 22, while the presidential primary election will take place on May 25.
The party also fixed May 26 for a meeting of its National Executive Committee (NEC), which will review the outcome of the primaries.
This will be followed by a Special National Convention on May 27, where final ratifications of candidates are expected to be made.
Alongside the timetable, the ADC also released the cost of nomination forms for various elective positions.
The presidential nomination form has been pegged at N100 million, while governorship aspirants will pay N50 million. Those seeking to contest for Senate seats will pay N20 million, while House of Representatives forms will cost N10 million.
For State House of Assembly positions, the nomination form is set at N3 million.
The party explained that the fees are part of efforts to maintain a structured and organised process for selecting candidates.
In a move aimed at encouraging wider participation, the ADC announced discounted rates for certain groups.
Youths will enjoy a 50 percent reduction in the cost of nomination forms, while women and persons with disabilities will receive a 25 percent discount.
The party said this step is part of its commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that more Nigerians, especially underrepresented groups, have the opportunity to participate in the political process.
In the statement, the ADC stressed that the timetable reflects its commitment to internal democracy and fairness.
The party urged all members, stakeholders, and aspirants to strictly follow the schedule and guidelines to ensure a smooth and credible process.
Internal democracy has been a major issue in Nigerian politics, with many parties often criticised for imposition of candidates and lack of transparency in their primaries.
By releasing a clear timetable early, the ADC appears to be positioning itself as a party that values due process and openness.
The release of the timetable comes at a time when political activities are gradually building up across the country ahead of future elections.
Although the next general elections are still some time away, political parties in Nigeria often begin early preparations, including the selection of candidates through primaries.
The ADC, which has positioned itself as an alternative platform in Nigeria’s political space, has been working to strengthen its structure and attract more members.
In recent years, the party has gained attention due to the involvement of prominent political figures and its efforts to present itself as a credible opposition option.
However, like many other parties, it faces challenges such as internal disagreements, funding issues, and competition from larger, more established parties.
The announcement of the timetable is expected to trigger increased political activities within the party, as aspirants begin consultations and preparations for the primaries.
Stakeholders within the ADC are likely to study the timetable closely and strategise ahead of the contests.
With the timetable now public, attention will shift to how well the party implements the process.
For aspirants, the coming weeks will be critical, as they prepare to meet deadlines, undergo screening, and campaign within the party.
For the ADC, the successful conduct of its primaries could strengthen its position in Nigeria’s political landscape and boost confidence among members and supporters.