The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially closed the sale of Expression of Interest forms for the presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party leadership confirmed that no further presidential nomination forms will be sold, signaling a firm stance on internal deadlines.
Deadline Extension for Other Positions
In a statement issued from Abuja and signed by the party's National Secretary, Ikenna Enekweizu, on Monday, May 18, the NDC announced that aspirants seeking other positions still have a limited opportunity. The deadline for those contesting seats in the Senate, House of Representatives, State Houses of Assembly, and governorship positions has been extended from May 17 to May 24, 2026.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the party has also set a strict timetable for the subsequent stages. Screening of all aspirants who have purchased and submitted forms is scheduled to take place from Tuesday to May 26. Following this, successful candidates will proceed to the nomination stage, with form collection and submission also closing on May 26.
Stringent Screening Requirements
The party emphasized that no further extensions will be granted, and all aspirants must adhere strictly to the timetable. To qualify for screening, contestants must appear in person with essential documents, including educational certificates, birth certificate or age declaration, passport photographs, voter's card, party membership card, and a curriculum vitae. They are also required to submit six copies of all documents.
The screening process will go beyond paperwork, considering voters' preferences, local realities, competence, character, and overall capacity of the aspirants. The party noted that its selection process will reflect its affirmative action policy, giving attention to women, youths, and persons living with disabilities.
Consensus and Nomination
The NDC encouraged aspirants to consider consensus arrangements and warned that only those cleared after screening will be allowed to proceed to purchase nomination forms. This approach aims to streamline the selection process and ensure that candidates meet the party's standards.
In related news, the All Progressives Congress (APC) had earlier waived screening requirements for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of its 2027 presidential primary election, effectively treating him as duly screened. The APC also confirmed that its 2027 primary election dates remain unchanged, with primaries for various positions scheduled for May 2026.
