Despite Defection Blues, ADC Revises Election Timetable

Amid recent defections and internal shifts within its ranks, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has released a revised timetable for its 2026 primary elections, alongside updated nomination fees for aspirants.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the adjustments followed extensive consultations with party leaders, aspirants, and stakeholders nationwide.

According to the updated schedule, the sale of nomination forms will run from May 1 to May 4, 2026, while the purchase and submission of completed forms will take place between May 6 and May 13, with May 13 set as the deadline.

Screening of aspirants is scheduled for May 14 and 15, while results will be published on May 17. Appeals are slated for May 18 and 19, with the final list of cleared aspirants to be released on May 20.

The party said primary elections for State Houses of Assembly, the House of Representatives, and the Senate will hold on May 21, followed by governorship primaries on May 22. The presidential primary is fixed for May 23, while a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting and Special National Convention are scheduled for May 25 and May 26, respectively.

ADC also announced revised nomination fees, pegging the presidential form at N90 million, governorship at N30 million, Senate at N10 million, House of Representatives at N5 million, and State House of Assembly at N2 million.

Despite the increase, the party retained its concessionary policy, offering a 50 per cent discount for youth aspirants aged 18 to 35, and a 25 per cent discount for women and persons living with disabilities.

The party said the changes are part of efforts to strengthen internal democracy, improve access, and ensure a more inclusive political process.

It urged all aspirants and stakeholders to take note of the revised timetable and comply fully with the guidelines as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.

The development comes at a time when the ADC is navigating a wave of defections and realignments within Nigeria’s opposition space, a situation analysts say could test the party’s cohesion ahead of the polls.