Sources confirmed that Obi was the only candidate who purchased the presidential nomination forms before the deadline set by the party.

While the presidential form sale has been closed, the party announced a one-week extension for aspirants seeking positions in other categories, including governorship, Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly.

According to the NDC National Secretary, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu, the earlier deadline of May 17, 2026, has been extended to May 24, 2026, to allow more aspirants to complete their applications for non-presidential offices.

He clarified that the extension does not apply to the presidential ticket, which has already been concluded.

The party’s timetable shows that screening of aspirants will begin on May 19 and end on May 26, 2026, while the collection and submission of nomination forms for cleared candidates will run from May 20 to May 26.

The NDC warned that no further extension will be granted and urged all aspirants to strictly comply with the outlined guidelines and deadlines.

All candidates are required to appear for screening with necessary documents, including academic certificates, birth records or age declarations, passport photographs, voter’s card, party membership card, and curriculum vitae, with all submissions to be made in six copies.

The party said screening will be based on factors such as electorate preference, competence, character, local considerations, and inclusiveness, with special attention to women, youths, and persons with disabilities.

It also encouraged consensus-building among aspirants, stating that only those cleared through the screening process will be eligible for nomination forms.

With this development, Obi—who recently joined the NDC from the African Democratic Congress (ADC)—is widely expected to emerge as the party’s consensus presidential candidate.

The incident, according to reports, involved EFCC operatives allegedly storming the hospital premises and disrupting activities, an action that sparked widespread condemnation from the medical community.

The Association of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Nigeria (ACTSON) described the development as disturbing and unacceptable, warning that it could undermine confidence in healthcare institutions.

In a statement jointly signed by its President, Abubakar Umar, and Secretary-General, Salisu Ismail, the association said the incident created panic within the hospital and disrupted critical medical services.

It noted that Prof. Ekpe played a key role in establishing the Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit at UUTH, providing lifesaving services to patients in Akwa Ibom State and surrounding areas.

ACTSON further condemned the alleged public handling of the senior surgeon and other staff, describing it as degrading and capable of demoralising healthcare workers.

While acknowledging the statutory role of law enforcement agencies, the association stressed that such operations must be conducted with professionalism, restraint, and respect for sensitive environments like hospitals.

Reacting to the controversy, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede said the commission would tender an apology to address concerns raised by the medical community and members of the public affected by the incident.

He expressed regret over the episode, noting that it did not reflect the standards expected of the agency, and confirmed that a full investigation had been ordered.

Olukoyede added that any officer found to have acted outside approved professional conduct would face internal disciplinary action after the investigation.

He also assured stakeholders that the EFCC would work with relevant institutions to prevent a repeat of such occurrences, while reaffirming the agency’s commitment to fighting economic and financial crimes across the country.