The Labour Party (LP) has officially unveiled its detailed timetable and schedule for the 2026 primary elections, setting the stage for the 2027 general elections in Nigeria. In a statement released by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, on Sunday, the LP outlined key dates, fees, and procedures for candidates aspiring to contest across various political offices. The party’s plan aligns with the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act 2026, and the schedule released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The LP has set a combined fee of N50 million for presidential aspirants, comprising N10 million for the expression of interest form and N40 million for the nomination form. For other positions, fees vary: House of Assembly aspirants pay N3 million, House of Representatives candidates N5 million, Senate aspirants N10 million, and governorship candidates N25 million. The party has also introduced concessions for women, youths aged 25 to 30, and persons living with disabilities, who are required to pay only for the expression of interest forms across all categories.
Notably, Abia State Governor and LP National Leader, Alex Otti, will receive both his expression of interest and nomination forms free of charge. This exemption is in recognition of his performance in office and his contributions to the party’s growth and image. The sale of nomination forms will begin on May 6 and end on May 16, with submission of completed forms scheduled for May 17 to May 18.
Screening of aspirants is set for May 20 for House of Assembly and governorship candidates, and May 22 for National Assembly and presidential aspirants. The screening results will be published on May 23, followed by appeals and petitions on May 24 for state-level positions and May 25 for national positions. The final list of cleared aspirants will be released on May 26.
Primaries for House of Assembly and governorship positions are scheduled for May 27, while those for National Assembly and presidential aspirants will hold on May 29. The party is also urging prospective candidates who are not yet registered members to take advantage of its ongoing e-registration, which closes at midnight on May 4. This is ahead of the submission of the party’s membership register to INEC.
This structured timeline reflects the LP’s commitment to transparency and adherence to electoral timelines. As Nigeria prepares for its next general elections, the Labour Party’s early mobilization and clear roadmap signal its readiness to engage in a competitive and credible electoral process.
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