NDC shuts presidential form sale, extends deadline for other aspirants

ABUJA — The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially closed the sale of Expression of Interest Forms for aspirants seeking to contest the presidency under the party’s platform ahead of the 2027 general elections, while extending the deadline for other elective offices.

The party announced that aspirants for State Houses of Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate and Governorship positions would now have until May 24, 2026, to obtain their Expression of Interest Forms, extending the earlier deadline of May 17.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja by the party’s National Secretary, Mr. Ikenna Enekweizu.

According to the statement, screening of aspirants who have purchased and completed their Expression of Interest Forms will commence on Tuesday and end on May 26, as the party moves to conclude its pre-election preparations.

The NDC further revealed that the collection and submission of Nomination Forms for aspirants who successfully pass the screening process would begin on Wednesday and close on May 26.

The party stressed that there would be no further extension beyond the stipulated deadline, warning aspirants to adhere strictly to the guidelines and timetable provided.

It directed all aspirants to appear for screening and pre-qualification interviews at designated venues nationwide with relevant documents, including educational certificates, birth certificates or declarations of age, passport photographs, voter’s cards, NDC membership cards and curriculum vitae.

According to the statement, all submitted documents must be presented in six copies.

The party explained that the screening process would be guided by factors such as the wishes of the electorate, local realities, aspirants’ competence and capacity, as well as integrity and character.

The NDC also said its Screening Committee would take into account the party’s affirmative action policy aimed at promoting the inclusion of women, youths and persons living with disabilities.

While encouraging internal consensus among party members, the party emphasised that only aspirants who scale through the screening exercise would be eligible to purchase Nomination Forms.