By Adeyemi David
A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has announced May 25, 2027, as the date for its presidential primary ahead of the next general elections.
The decision was contained in a communiqué issued after the faction’s 106th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday.
Reading the communiqué, the National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, said the party leadership set timetable for its primaries in line with the revised election schedule released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.
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According to the timetable, the party will submit its membership register to INEC on April 10, while State House of Assembly primaries are scheduled for May 2.
The National Assembly primaries will hold on May 9, followed by gubernatorial primaries on May 16.
The presidential primary election is slated for May 25, while timelines were also set for resolving disputes arising from the various primaries.
The NEC commended the National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC) led by Abdulrahman Mohammed for its efforts in stabilising the party and steering its affairs during the current transition period.
It expressed satisfaction with the successful conduct of ward and local government congresses, noting that state congresses are expected to take place nationwide this weekend.
The committee also approved the conduct of zonal congresses in two weeks as part of preparations for the party’s National Convention.
The faction welcomed recent rulings of the Court of Appeal affirming the authority of the caretaker committee, describing the judgments as a boost to the constitutional processes and stability of the party.
It called on party leaders and members across the country to remain united and committed to reconciliation, urging those involved in internal disputes to avoid further litigation at the Supreme Court in the interest of unity and stability.
The NEC also approved the expansion of the party’s electronic membership registration to modernise its database and strengthen grassroots participation.
Meanwhile, preparations for the party’s National Convention scheduled for March 29 and 30 are ongoing, where a new National Working Committee (NWC) is expected to emerge in accordance with the party’s constitution.
The Wike-aligned PDP leadership reiterated its commitment to democratic principles, national unity and good governance, expressing optimism that renewed unity within the party would strengthen its chances in future elections.
