YPP Approves Primaries Timetable, Raises Alarm Over Insecurity

The Young Progressives Party, YPP, has approved a timetable for its congresses, primaries and national convention ahead of upcoming electoral activities, fixing May 30, 2026, for its National Convention and presidential primary.

The decisions were contained in a communique issued at the end of the party’s 25th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held Friday at its National Secretariat in Abuja.

According to the communique signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Egbeola Wale Martins, the NEC ratified a schedule beginning with Ward Congresses on May 21, followed by Local Government Congresses on May 22 and State Congresses on May 23.

The party also fixed May 24 for House of Assembly primaries, May 25 for House of Representatives and Senate primaries, May 26 for governorship primaries, while the National Convention and presidential primary will hold on May 30.

The NEC also approved nomination fees for elective offices, pegging House of Assembly forms at N1.5 million, House of Representatives at N3 million, Senate at N8 million, governorship at N20 million, and the presidential form at N50 million. It, however, retained free Expression of Interest forms for all aspirants.

In a move aimed at encouraging inclusion, the party granted a 50 per cent concession on nomination fees for aspirants below 40 years, women and persons living with disabilities. The sale of nomination forms, the communique stated, takes effect immediately.

On internal party structure, the NEC resolved to zone the position of State Chairman in Anambra State to the Central Senatorial District, while retaining the office of State Secretary in the Southern Senatorial District, citing the political peculiarities of the state.

The meeting also approved a three-day nationwide membership drive challenge to boost party registration, directing state chairmen and stakeholders to mobilize for its success.

On the mode of primaries, the NEC adopted both consensus and direct primary options for elections at all levels in line with the party’s constitution and the Electoral Act.

Beyond internal matters, the party voiced strong concern over worsening insecurity across the country, especially rising cases of kidnapping for ransom and violent attacks targeting civilians and security personnel.

The NEC condemned what it described as the impunity with which criminal elements operate across the country and called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to show stronger political will in tackling the security crisis.

It warned that the continued loss of lives, including military personnel, was unacceptable and demanded urgent and effective action from the federal government.