The Youth Party has unveiled comprehensive guidelines and a detailed timetable for conducting primary elections ahead of the 2027 General Elections, specifically targeting restored constituencies in Benue, Delta, Jigawa, and Kogi states. This announcement was made through an official press statement issued by the party leadership.
Compliance with Electoral Laws
The party emphasized that the primaries will strictly adhere to the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026 (as amended), and the guidelines set forth by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The National Executive Committee (NEC) has approved revised guidelines designed to ensure full compliance with electoral regulations while promoting transparency, fairness, and credibility in the party's internal democratic processes.
Key Dates and Fees
According to the released timetable, the sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms began on June 14, 2026, and will close on June 24, 2026. The screening of aspirants, along with the consideration of any appeals arising from the screening exercise, is scheduled for June 24. The primary elections and subsequent appeals from the exercise will take place on June 25, 2026.
For the State House of Assembly elections, nomination forms are priced at a total of N250,000, which includes N100,000 for the Expression of Interest Form and N150,000 for the Nomination Form. However, the party has introduced significant concessions: female aspirants, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and young aspirants below 40 years of age will pay only 50 percent of the prescribed nomination fee. All payments must be made through a designated Zenith Bank account dedicated to the primaries, and forms are available online via the party's election portal.
One Member One Vote System
In a move aimed at broadening participation and deepening internal democracy, the Youth Party announced that its primaries will be conducted under the One Member One Vote (OMOV) system. This approach eliminates the use of delegates and super delegates, ensuring that every registered party member is entitled to vote during the primaries. The party also revealed plans to deploy electronic voting methods, including online and SMS-based platforms, to make the process more convenient and accessible. The electronic voting system will be secure, monitored by candidates and INEC officials, and conducted through secret balloting in compliance with legal requirements.
Transparency and Equal Opportunities
The Youth Party further pledged to make its guidelines, membership register, and voters' lists available to all aspirants without discrimination. This measure is part of efforts to guarantee transparency and equal opportunities for all contestants. The party stated, 'The Party is committed to expanding the democratic space by providing a level playing field for all aspirants on its platform.' It also invited Nigerians interested in contesting elections under its platform or participating in the primaries as voters to register as members. The party reiterated its commitment to transparent political leadership and followership while condemning money politics, bribery, violence, repression, corruption, and short-term political thinking.
Mandatory NIN for Membership
Additionally, the party announced a mandatory membership revalidation and registration exercise in compliance with Section 77 of the Electoral Act, 2026 (Amendment). Under the new requirement, all existing and prospective members must provide their National Identification Number (NIN) to validate or obtain membership. The party declared 'No NIN, No Membership,' emphasizing that possession of a valid NIN is now compulsory for participation in its activities. Members are advised to complete their registration and revalidation through the party's online registration portal, where they must enter their NIN, review their details, and save or print their membership slips. The Youth Party urged all members to complete this process promptly to secure their membership status ahead of the forthcoming primaries and the 2027 General Elections.
