The All Progressives Congress has postponed its presidential primary election to May 23, 2026. Initially, the party fixed the exercise for May 15 and 16, 2026. However, it adjusted the date following a revised timetable for 2027 elections. Meanwhile, the governorship primaries will now take place on May 21, 2026.
Duro Meseko announced the changes after a key meeting in Abuja. He confirmed that the National Working Committee approved the updated election schedule. Furthermore, the party shifted the screening of aspirants to new dates. Originally, screening was set between May 6 and May 8, 2026.
Now, the process aligns with fresh adjustments across all elective positions. In addition, the party outlined new timelines for purchasing and submitting nomination forms. Sales of forms will run from April 25 to May 2, 2026. Aspirants must submit completed forms by May 4, 2026. Subsequently, the party will conduct screenings for legislative and executive positions. It will also publish screening results on May 11, 2026.Appeals arising from the process will follow immediately after.
Moreover, the APC confirmed that it will adopt direct and consensus primaries. Aspirants can freely choose their preferred mode under the law. However, disagreement automatically triggers the direct primary option. Importantly, the party dismissed rumours about restricted nomination forms. It clarified that all aspirants can access forms without discrimination.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission has released key election dates. Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on January 16, 2027. Governorship and state assembly elections will follow on February 6, 2027.
