The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has outlined key steps toward the 2027 general elections, approving a detailed timetable for party primaries while urging members to embrace unity and reconciliation ahead of the party’s national convention.
The decisions were contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the party’s 106th NEC meeting held on Wednesday in Abuja.
NEC commended the National Caretaker Working Committee led by Abdulrahman Mohammed for its efforts in stabilizing the party and steering its affairs during what it described as a critical transitional period.
The committee expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the Ward and Local Government Congresses across the country, noting that the exercises were largely successful. It also expressed confidence that the upcoming State Congresses would be conducted peacefully, transparently and in strict compliance with the party’s constitution and guidelines.
As part of the ongoing internal democratic process, NEC approved the conduct of the Zonal Congresses scheduled to take place in two weeks, describing them as an important step toward the party’s National Convention slated for March 29 and 30.
The committee also welcomed recent judgments of the Court of Appeal affirming the authority and leadership of the caretaker committee, noting that the rulings had strengthened constitutional processes within the party.
However, NEC stressed the urgent need for reconciliation among party leaders and stakeholders, emphasizing that the strength of the PDP lies in its ability to resolve internal disagreements through dialogue and adherence to party structures. It therefore urged members involved in disputes to refrain from pursuing further litigation, particularly any move to the Supreme Court, in the interest of unity and stability.
In a move aimed at modernizing the party’s operations, NEC approved the expansion of the PDP’s electronic membership registration system. According to the committee, the initiative will help strengthen the party’s membership database, promote grassroots participation and improve transparency in party administration.
Preparations for the National Convention were also reaffirmed, with NEC announcing that a new National Working Committee (NWC) will be elected during the convention in accordance with the party’s constitution.
As part of its preparations for the 2027 elections, NEC acknowledged the revised timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, which requires that notices of election be issued not later than 300 days before the polls.
In line with the INEC schedule, the PDP approved its own timetable for the conduct of party primaries. The party will submit its membership register to the electoral commission on April 10, 2026. Primaries for State House of Assembly seats are scheduled for May 2, while those for the National Assembly will hold on May 9. Governorship primaries are set for May 16, while the presidential primary will take place on May 25.
NEC also approved the constitution of several committees to organize the National Convention, including the main committee, electoral committee, accreditation committee, venue and entertainment committee, accommodation and transport committee, special duties (finance) committee, security committee, media and publicity committee, medical committee, contact and mobilisation committee, and protocol committee.
The committee strongly condemned the attack by hoodlums on party members during the recently conducted congresses in Ibadan, Oyo State, describing the incident as unfortunate and contrary to democratic values.
It called on security agencies to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
NEC further urged party leaders, stakeholders and members across the federation to remain disciplined and focused while supporting all processes leading to the successful conduct of the remaining congresses and the National Convention.
Reaffirming the party’s broader political commitment, NEC said the PDP remains dedicated to democratic principles, national unity, good governance and the welfare of Nigerians, adding that the party remains a credible platform for responsible leadership and national development.
The meeting ended on what the communiqué described as a note of renewed unity and determination among party leaders to strengthen the PDP and position it for greater national service.
