The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has adjusted its timetable for the 2027 general elections, rescheduling the party’s presidential primary to May 23.
The update was disclosed on Thursday in Abuja by the party’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, following the 186th NWC meeting.
Meseko explained that the presidential primary, which had earlier been slated for May 15, will now take place on Saturday, May 23, alongside other changes reflected in the revised schedule.
He also noted that Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for all elective offices remain accessible to aspirants across the country.
According to him, the review became necessary to align with provisions of the amended Constitution, the 2026 Electoral Act, and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“This is the newest timetable reflecting updated legal and procedural requirements,” Meseko said.
He further revealed that the revised timetable has already been formally transmitted to INEC in line with electoral regulations.
Under the new schedule, sale of nomination forms will commence on Saturday, April 25, and close on Saturday, May 2, while the submission deadline for completed forms is Monday, May 4.
Meseko added that screening of aspirants for all positions, from State Houses of Assembly to the presidential level, will take place between May 6 and May 9.
He stated that presidential aspirants will be screened on Saturday, May 9, with the outcome for all categories to be released on Monday, May 11.
He explained that the primaries will be conducted in phases, covering legislative, senatorial, governorship and presidential contests on different dates.
Meseko dismissed claims that nomination forms were being restricted, maintaining that the process remains open to all eligible aspirants within the party.
“I am here to inform all party faithful that nomination forms are open to all aspirants seeking elective offices,” he said.
On the mode of primaries, he said the NWC approved both direct and consensus options, as allowed by the Electoral Act, depending on prevailing conditions.
He emphasised that any consensus arrangement must be based on agreement among aspirants and key stakeholders before adoption by party organs.
“Where consensus fails or is rejected by any aspirant, the party automatically reverts to direct primary elections,” he explained.
He also indicated that state chapters have the authority to determine the mode of primaries suitable for their respective states.
Speaking on Zamfara, Meseko disclosed that internal party congresses had been scheduled, beginning with ward, local government and state congresses from April 28.
“Ward congresses will hold on April 30, while state congresses and appeal processes are expected to conclude by May 3,” he said.
He assured members that the updated national membership register, including new entrants, has been submitted to INEC.
Meseko added that the APC has completed all necessary administrative and regulatory requirements ahead of its 2027 primary elections.
