2027: NDC approves direct primaries for state assembly elections 

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has approved the use of direct primaries for the selection of candidates for state assembly elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The decision followed extensive deliberations involving the party leadership, screening committee, and other key stakeholders during a meeting held at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.

In a statement signed by Osa Director, the party’s national publicity secretary, the NDC said the resolution was based on the recommendations of its screening committee chaired by Sam Egwu, former governor of Ebonyi state which recently concluded the vetting of aspirants across the country.

The party commended the committee for what it described as a thorough and professional screening exercise, noting that the process covered a large number of aspirants nationwide.

According to the party, all individuals who purchased expression of interest forms will be allowed to participate in the primaries at their respective constituencies.

It explained that this approach was adopted due to time constraints and consultations with stakeholders.

The statement added that successful candidates would later proceed to the national secretariat for documentation and completion of nomination procedures.

The NDC also disclosed that it had deployed election teams across all states to supervise the primaries in collaboration with local party structures.

It further explained that while state assembly candidates would emerge through direct primaries at constituency level, other categories such as governorship, national assembly,and presidential aspirants would be decided through processes conducted at designated local government centres.

The party assured members that final results from all exercises would be reviewed and announced by the national leadership.

It also urged aspirants and supporters to maintain peace during the primaries, warning that disciplinary action would be taken against any form of violence or misconduct.

The NDC added that although electronic voting systems were part of its long-term reforms, logistical constraints would limit full deployment for the current exercise, but promised digitalisation in future elections.