2027: YPP slashes fees for candidates, schedules presidential primary for May 30

The Young Progressives Party has set 30 May as the date for its presidential primary, and has also reduced the cost of nomination forms for aspirants, as part of a tight schedule for its congresses, primaries, and national convention ahead of the 2027 general election.

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This decision was made at the party's 25th National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja, which aimed to put the party's structures in place, increase access for aspirants, and make the party more competitive as the political season gains momentum.

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A communiqué issued by the party's National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Egbeola Martins, outlined a step-by-step schedule, starting with ward congresses on 21 May and ending with the presidential primary and national convention on 30 May.

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Local government congresses are scheduled to take place on 22 May, followed by state congresses on 23 May, as part of the party's preparations for the elections.

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Primaries for the House of Assembly will be held on 24 May, while those for the House of Representatives and Senate are fixed for 25 May, in line with the party's schedule.

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Governorship primaries will take place on 26 May, as the party moves to select its candidates for the various positions.

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The NEC also approved nomination fees, which include N1.5 million for the House of Assembly, N3 million for the House of Representatives, N8 million for the Senate, N20 million for governorship, and N50 million for the presidential ticket.

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A free expression of interest form will be retained, and the party has introduced a 50 per cent concession for aspirants under 40, women, and persons living with disabilities, with the sale of forms starting immediately.

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In Anambra State, the NEC has zoned the position of State Chairman to the Central Senatorial District, while the position of State Secretary will remain in the Southern Senatorial District.

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The party has also approved a three-day Membership Drive Challenge to boost its nationwide registration, urging state chairmen and stakeholders to mobilize fully for the exercise.

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The NEC has stated that elections at all levels will be conducted using both consensus and direct primary methods, in line with the party's constitution and the Electoral Act.

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The party has raised an alarm over the worsening state of insecurity across the country, particularly the rise in kidnapping for ransom and violent attacks on citizens and security personnel.

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The NEC has condemned the impunity with which criminal elements operate across the country, and has urged the President and Commander-in-Chief to take greater resolve in addressing the issue.

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The party has called for urgent action, stating that the continuous loss of lives, including those of military personnel, is unacceptable and demands immediate and effective action.