APC presidential primary shift has been confirmed as the ruling All Progressives Congress rescheduled its presidential primary election to May 23, while adopting a dual mode system for the exercise. The APC presidential primary shift reflects an adjustment in the party’s timetable ahead of the 2027 general elections, with officials outlining changes to both the date and method of selecting candidates.
The adjustment comes as part of the party’s broader preparations for the 2027 general elections, where political parties are required to conduct primaries within timelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
INEC has fixed a window between April and May 2026 for political parties to complete their primaries and resolve disputes arising from them. Earlier, the APC had scheduled its presidential primary for mid-May, but subsequent internal reviews led to the APC presidential primary shift to May 23, aligning with adjustments across its electoral timetable.
According to party officials, the APC presidential primary shift moved the exercise to May 23, replacing the earlier date communicated in its initial timetable. The decision was formally conveyed through the party’s National Working Committee.
In addition to the new date, the party adopted a dual mode system for the presidential primary. This means that the selection process will combine elements of both direct and indirect primary methods, allowing participation of party members alongside delegate-based voting structures.
Party spokespersons stated that the decision was intended to ensure inclusiveness and operational flexibility in the conduct of the primaries. The dual mode approach is expected to accommodate logistical considerations across states while maintaining compliance with internal party rules.
The APC presidential primary shift is part of a wider electoral schedule that includes screening of aspirants, submission of nomination forms, and conduct of primaries for other elective positions such as governorship and legislative seats.
The APC presidential primary shift introduces a revised timeline that may affect campaign planning and internal party coordination among aspirants. Adjustments in primary dates often influence campaign schedules, stakeholder consultations, and delegate mobilisation.
The adoption of a dual mode system also reflects ongoing debates within political parties over the most suitable method for candidate selection. While direct primaries are seen as more inclusive, indirect primaries are often considered easier to manage logistically. For the electoral process, the development highlights how political parties continue to refine their internal procedures within the framework provided by electoral regulations.
