The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has confirmed that its presidential, National Assembly, governorship and state assembly primaries will go ahead as scheduled on May 29, 2026, despite disruptions linked to the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
In a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, the party explained that the festive period caused significant logistical challenges, including transport disruptions and limited flight availability. As a result, several aspirants and members of the screening committee reportedly remained stranded in Abuja after the screening exercise.
The party’s National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas, said May 28 would now be used for arrivals, documentation processes with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies, as well as consultations and other preparatory meetings ahead of the primaries.
He added that party officials deployed across states are also expected to use the day to engage with stakeholders, party elders and aspirants in preparation for the exercise.
Cleopas, however, stressed that no state agency or security body, including the police, DSS, or INEC, is permitted to take part in any activities scheduled for May 28. He warned that any involvement outside the approved arrangements would be regarded as unlawful and unauthorised.
Reassuring members, he maintained that the timetable remains unchanged for May 29, when the party will conduct its various primaries across the country.
He further explained the sequence of the exercises, beginning with presidential affirmation, followed by National Assembly, state assembly, and governorship primaries or affirmations.
According to him, all results from the states will be compiled and forwarded to the party’s national headquarters, where the National Working Committee will announce the final outcomes. He emphasised that no state executive is authorised to declare results.
Cleopas also urged aspirants and party members to remain calm and conduct themselves peacefully throughout the process, warning that violence or disorderly behaviour would not be tolerated.