The All Progressives Congress has dismissed claims that it is restricting access to nomination forms ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that the process is open to all qualified members.
The party gave the clarification on Thursday in Abuja after its 186th National Working Committee meeting, where it also unveiled a revised timetable and schedule of activities for the elections.
Speaking with journalists, the APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, said there were no limitations placed on aspirants seeking elective offices under the party.
He stated that nomination forms would be available to interested members from April 25 to May 2, while the deadline for submission of completed forms is May 4.
Meseko added that screening of aspirants for various positions, including State Houses of Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate, governorship and presidential offices, would take place between May 6 and May 9.
He explained that the party had adopted both direct and consensus options for the conduct of primaries, in line with provisions of the Electoral Act, noting that aspirants are free to choose their preferred mode.
According to him, where consensus fails to produce unanimous agreement among stakeholders, the process would automatically revert to direct primaries.
The APC spokesman further disclosed that the party had fixed May 15 for House of Representatives primaries, May 18 for Senate, May 20 for State Houses of Assembly, May 21 for governorship, and May 23 for the presidential primary.
He added that publication of screening results would be done on May 11, while appeals arising from the exercise would be entertained between May 12 and May 13.
Meseko also said the National Working Committee approved guidelines for ward, local government and state congresses in Zamfara State, scheduled to begin on April 28.
He noted that ward congresses would hold on April 30, with appeals and related processes expected to conclude by May 3.
The party maintained that the revised timetable had been communicated to the Independent National Electoral Commission in compliance with electoral regulations.