In a statement issued on Tuesday and jointly signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, and National Organising Secretary, Theophilus Dakas Shan, the PDP said the adjustment became necessary due to increasing requests from aspirants.

The party noted that the revised timetable is final, stressing that it must comply with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) schedule for the 2027 elections. It therefore urged all aspirants and stakeholders to adhere strictly to the new dates.

Naija News reports that the PDP has fixed May 22, 2026, as the deadline for submission of completed nomination forms, while primaries for all offices are scheduled for May 28, 2026.

According to the statement, the Interim National Working Committee approved a further and final adjustment to the timetable for pre-nomination activities as follows:

• Deadline for submission of completed forms: May 22, 2026
• Special screening (for those yet to be screened): May 23, 2026
• Screening appeals and related processes
• Publication of cleared aspirants: May 25, 2026
• Final publication of cleared aspirants: May 27, 2026
• Primaries for all offices: May 28, 2026

The party warned that no further extension will be granted, citing the need to meet INEC’s electoral timetable.

News reports that this reaction follows media claims that Nwoko lost the APC senatorial primary to former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, during the exercise held on Monday.

In a statement issued through Tonnie Oganah, Media Director of the Anioma State movement championed by Nwoko, the senator urged supporters and political actors to remain calm and avoid making conclusions that could mislead the public or breach legal boundaries.

He stressed that no official result has been announced, noting that only the national leadership of the APC in Abuja has the authority to declare the authentic outcome of the primary election.

According to him, releasing partial or unofficial results amounts to spreading half-truths that can distort public understanding of the process.

The statement further emphasised Nwoko’s long-standing advocacy for the Anioma cause, including his push for increased political representation and structural reforms in Delta State.

It also claimed that he envisions greater political inclusion for the Anioma people, including more senatorial and House of Representatives seats, additional local government areas, and enhanced political relevance within the state.

Nwoko was also quoted as urging the Anioma people to remain focused on long-term political goals rather than being distracted by short-term gains or inducements.

The statement added that he remains one of the earliest politicians in Delta State to publicly support President Bola Tinubu and the APC.

It further expressed confidence that the Anioma people would support the party in the 2027 elections in appreciation of what it described as ongoing efforts toward development and political inclusion.

Additionally, the statement stressed that the APC would only present candidates who meet legal and party requirements, including clean records and proper resignation from previous political parties, in line with electoral laws and party constitution.

Ajose announced his decision on Tuesday, describing it as a difficult choice that followed deep reflection and internal struggle.

He said the withdrawal was made in the interest of party unity and political stability within the Lagos APC, adding that it followed wide consultations with stakeholders and party members.

According to him, the decision was not taken lightly, as he carefully considered what would best serve the collective interest of the party in Lagos State.

He stated, “I know it’s a very tough decision. I didn’t sleep overnight too. I struggled with it. But when I woke up this morning, I had my peace.”

He added that the move was aimed at ensuring broader benefits for party members and the state, stressing that supporting Hamzat was the best option at this time.

“In the interest of the party, I, Samuel Ajose, have decided to step down. I will support Governor Hamzat. We are going to be part of the campaign and take an important role in his campaign,” he said.

His withdrawal comes weeks after former Lagos governorship aspirant Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, also stepped down and endorsed Hamzat.

Jandor had earlier explained that his decision followed the endorsement of Hamzat by President Bola Tinubu and other influential APC leaders in Lagos State.