Nigeria TV Info 

On Your Marks, Set, Go: Parties Race Against May Deadline for Primaries

Political parties across Nigeria have intensified preparations for their primary elections as the May deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fast approaches. The electoral body had earlier released a timetable mandating all registered parties to conclude their primaries and submit the names of candidates within the stipulated period.

With the clock ticking, major parties including the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party (Nigeria) are finalising guidelines, screening aspirants, and resolving internal disputes to avoid last-minute disqualifications.

Party secretariats in Abuja and across the states have become hives of activity, as aspirants lobby delegates and build alliances ahead of the contests. Political analysts say the coming weeks will be critical, as internal party democracy and transparency in delegate selection could determine the credibility of candidates that emerge.

INEC has warned that failure to comply with the electoral timetable could lead to exclusion from the ballot, stressing that there will be no extension of the deadline. The commission also urged parties to adhere strictly to the provisions of the Electoral Act to prevent post-primary litigations that have in the past cost some candidates their victories.

Observers note that beyond meeting deadlines, parties must also ensure peaceful primaries to prevent defections and factional crises that often weaken campaign structures ahead of general elections.

As the race toward May gathers momentum, Nigerians watch closely to see which aspirants will secure party tickets and shape the political landscape in the months ahead.