ADC Releases 2026 Primary Election Timetable, Fixes Nomination Fees
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has released its timetable for the 2026 primary elections, detailing key dates for nomination processes, screening, and internal party activities, as part of efforts to strengthen internal governance and compliance with electoral standards.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Bolaji Abdullahi, said the schedule underscores the ADC’s commitment to internal democracy, orderliness, and adherence to electoral guidelines.
According to the timetable, the sale of nomination forms will take place from May 5 to May 10, 2026, while submission of completed forms is scheduled for May 11 to May 13, 2026.
Screening of aspirants will be conducted from May 14 to May 15, 2026, with results to be published on May 17, 2026. Appeals are slated for May 18 to May 19, 2026, while the final list of cleared aspirants will be released on May 20, 2026.
“Primary elections will commence on May 21, 2026, with State Houses of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senate primaries holding simultaneously at the ward level. Governorship primaries will follow on May 22, 2026, while the Presidential Primary is scheduled for May 25, 2026,” the statement said.
The process will be followed by a National Executive Committee meeting on May 26, 2026, and a Special National Convention on May 27, 2026, where final ratifications will take place.
The party also announced a structured fee regime for nomination forms: N100 million for the presidential ticket, N50 million for governorship, N20 million for Senate, N10 million for the House of Representatives, and N3 million for State Houses of Assembly.
To promote inclusivity and broaden participation, the ADC introduced concessions, offering a 50 per cent discount for youths, and a 25 per cent discount for women and persons with disabilities.
The party urged members, stakeholders, and aspirants to adhere strictly to the timetable and guidelines, describing compliance as critical to credible candidate selection and organisational stability.
