PDP Faction Fixes May 23, 2026 Presidential Primary, Sets Timeline For 2027 Elections

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has scheduled its presidential primaries for May 23, 2026, ahead of the 2027 general elections, signaling the commencement of what party officials describe as a crucial internal selection process.

The decision was reached at the party’s 106th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday, where leaders approved a comprehensive timetable for all primary elections in compliance with the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Presenting the communiqué after the meeting, the caretaker committee’s National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, outlined the approved schedule.

“NEC considered the conduct of party primaries for the various elective offices and the timelines for the resolution of disputes arising from such primaries.

“NEC urged all organs and stakeholders of the party to commence the necessary preparations and ensure strict adherence to the approved timelines and all relevant statutory provisions,” the communiqué stated.

According to the timetable, the party will submit its membership register to INEC on April 10, 2026. State Houses of Assembly primaries will follow on May 2, while National Assembly primaries are scheduled for May 9. Governorship primaries will hold on May 16, culminating in the presidential primaries on May 23.
“NEC received and noted the revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections as issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission, pursuant to the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, which require that the notice of election be issued not later than 300 days before the date of the election,” the communiqué added.

The meeting also reviewed preparations for the party’s national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30, 2026, where a new National Working Committee will be elected. Members expressed satisfaction with the conduct of recent ward and local government congresses.

“We are confident that the state congresses scheduled for the weekend will be conducted peacefully and in line with the party’s guidelines,” the communiqué noted.

The caretaker committee, led by Abdulrahman Mohammed, received commendation from NEC members for stabilising the party during the transition period.

The committee also welcomed recent judgments of the Court of Appeal affirming its leadership, describing the rulings as strengthening the party’s constitutional processes.

However, the party condemned what it described as an attack by hoodlums on members during congresses in Oyo State.

The communiqué described the incident as “unfortunate and contrary to democratic values,” calling on security agencies to investigate and prosecute those responsible.

NEC also approved the expansion of electronic membership registration, describing the initiative as a step towards modernising the party’s database and improving transparency in party administration.

As the party moves towards the 2027 elections, NEC urged leaders and members to remain united and disciplined, emphasising the need for internal reconciliation among stakeholders involved in disputes.

“Those involved in disputes should resolve their differences internally and refrain from pursuing further litigation, particularly moves to approach the Supreme Court of Nigeria,” the communiqué concluded.