2027: Labour Party Unveils Primary Timetable, Pegs Presidential Form at ₦50m, Grants Otti Free Ticket

The Labour Party has released its timetable and guidelines for the 2026 primary elections ahead of the 2027 general polls, detailing key dates, nomination fees, and concessions for aspirants.

In a statement issued on May 3 by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Eluma Asogwa, the party said the schedule aligns with the provisions of the Electoral Act and the timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

According to the timetable, the sale of nomination forms will commence on May 6 and end on May 16, 2026, while submission of completed forms is scheduled for May 17 to May 18.

Screening of aspirants will take place on May 20 for House of Assembly and governorship candidates, and May 22 for National Assembly and presidential aspirants. Screening results will be published on May 23.

Appeals will follow on May 24 and 25, with the final list of cleared aspirants to be released on May 26.

Party primaries are slated for May 27 for state-level positions, including governorship, while National Assembly and presidential primaries will hold on May 29.

The party fixed the presidential nomination fee at ₦50 million, comprising ₦10 million for the expression of interest form and ₦40 million for the nomination form.

Other fees include:

Governorship: ₦25 million

Senate: ₦10 million

House of Representatives: ₦5 million

State House of Assembly: ₦3 million

Concessions for Women, Youth, PWDs

In line with its inclusiveness policy, the party announced that women, persons living with disabilities, and youths aged 25 to 30 will only be required to pay for the expression of interest forms across all categories.

In an addendum to the statement, the party disclosed that Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, will be granted both the expression of interest and nomination forms free of charge.

The party said the gesture is in recognition of his performance in office, describing him as a key figure whose leadership has positively projected the party.

The Labour Party also urged prospective aspirants who are yet to register as members to take advantage of its ongoing e-registration, which closes at midnight on May 4, 2026.

The party said the registration is necessary for the compilation and submission of its membership register to INEC in compliance with electoral guidelines.