NDC releases June 2026 by‑election guidelines, outlines timetable and aspirant conditions

Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued official guidelines and a timetable for its June 2026 by‑elections, detailing activities, eligibility criteria, and general provisions for aspirants seeking to contest under the party’s banner.

In a national circular dated May 20, 2026, the NDC listed six constituencies where the by‑elections will be conducted: Enugu North Senatorial District (Enugu State), Nasarawa North Senatorial District (Nasarawa State), Ondo South Senatorial District (Ondo State), Rivers South‑East Senatorial District (Rivers State), Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency (Kano State), and Zuru State Constituency (Kebbi State).

The circular, signed by Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe, National Chairman, and Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu Esq, National Secretary, stated that the timetable aligns with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) schedule released on May 7, 2026, and complies with the Electoral Act 2022.

According to the timetable, the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms will run from May 20 to May 23, followed by screening and interviews between May 21 and May 23. Aspirants are expected to submit completed forms by May 24, while appeals from screening and interviews will be heard the same day.

The party emphasized that primaries for all positions — State House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senatorial seats — will be conducted at the Local Government Headquarters of the respective constituencies. INEC officials will monitor the primaries, and results will be transmitted to the NDC National Secretariat immediately after the exercise.

To qualify, aspirants must meet specific conditions, including being financially up‑to‑date members of the party, providing evidence of contribution to party growth, and demonstrating capacity to win elections. They must also have no criminal record or pending investigation, meet all constitutional requirements, and avoid arriving at screening venues with thugs or intimidating entourages, which will lead to immediate disqualification.

The circular further outlines general provisions requiring all aspirants to attend screening with valid credentials and sign an undertaking to abide by the party’s code of conduct. The use of abusive language, physical force, or campaign of calumny during primaries is strictly prohibited.

The NDC leadership reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and internal democracy, stating that any matter not covered by the guidelines will be determined by the National Executive Committee.