PDP Amends 2027 Primary Election Timetable Ahead of Key Political Milestone

PDP Amends 2027 Primary Election Timetable Ahead of Key Political Milestone

The Taminu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced a revised timetable for the party’s primary election process, citing appeals from stakeholders and aspirants nationwide. The updated schedule, released in a joint statement by the faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, and National Organising Secretary, Theophilus Dakas Shan, on Wednesday, adjusts key dates to accommodate broader participation. The changes aim to ensure a more inclusive and transparent nomination process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The revised timeline sets the final day for the purchase of nomination forms as May 15, 2026. This gives aspirants a clear deadline to secure their candidacy documents. Following this, the last date for submission of completed forms is now May 18, 2026. This three-day window allows candidates sufficient time to finalize and submit their applications before the screening phase begins.

Screening of aspirants is scheduled for May 19, 2026. The process will be decentralized, with candidates for National and State Assemblies being screened in their respective states. In contrast, aspirants vying for gubernatorial and presidential positions will undergo screening in Abuja, the nation’s capital. This arrangement ensures logistical efficiency and centralized oversight for top-tier candidates.

The statement emphasized that all other activities related to the primary election will proceed as previously announced. This includes the subsequent phases of candidate shortlisting, public declarations, and the final nomination of candidates for the 2027 elections. The PDP leadership under Turaki’s faction insists that the adjustments reflect responsiveness to the party’s grassroots and aspirants’ concerns.

The move comes amid heightened political activity across Nigeria as parties prepare for the next general elections. The PDP, one of Nigeria’s major political parties, is keen to maintain internal cohesion and credibility in its candidate selection process. The revised timetable is expected to reduce last-minute rush and improve the quality of submissions.

Aspirants and party members across the country have welcomed the extension, viewing it as a positive step toward a fair and orderly primary. The PDP’s decision underscores its commitment to inclusivity and stakeholder engagement in the nomination process. With the new schedule in place, the party is now poised to move forward with its internal elections in an organized and timely manner. This development sets the stage for a competitive and transparent selection of candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.