NDC Begins Membership Drive, Reschedules Congresses Nationwide -

 NDC Begins Membership Drive, Reschedules Congresses Nationwide

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has formally notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of a review and rescheduling of dates for its congresses and national convention ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a letter dated April 15, 2026, and addressed to the Chairman of INEC, the party said the decision followed deliberations at its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on March 25, 2026, where its draft timetable for congresses, primaries, and national convention was initially presented and adopted.

The correspondence, signed by the NDC National Chairman, Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe, and National Secretary, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu, explained that although earlier dates had been communicated to INEC, the party reviewed the schedule “in its best interest.”

According to the revised timetable, activities commenced with an ongoing e-registration and membership drive, while formal notices to INEC and state chapters were issued in late March 2026. Membership e-registration is expected to close by noon on April 29, 2026, with submission of the party’s register to INEC scheduled for the same day in compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act.

The party outlined that its congresses will begin on May 1, 2026, starting with ward congresses across the country, including polling unit and community-level exercises where applicable. This will be followed by local government congresses on May 2, state congresses on May 4, and zonal congresses on May 6.

The NDC’s national convention, which will elect party officials, is slated for May 9, 2026.

In[b] a separate notice, the party also informed INEC of its timetable for party primaries and the convention for the nomination of candidates. State Assembly primaries are scheduled for May 22, followed by National Assembly primaries on May 24, and governorship primaries on May 25, 2026. The final national convention for ratification of candidates is fixed for May 29, 2026.[/b]

The party urged INEC to deploy its officials to monitor all stages of the exercises, reaffirming its commitment to due process and internal democracy.