The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has directed its candidates nationwide to commence campaigns for the 2027 general elections, in line with the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The party also directed its candidates to use its original logo – the two-finger victory sign – since the modified digital version is still undergoing approval by INEC.

It announced plans to inaugurate its various campaign committees as part of preparations for the elections.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the NDC directed its presidential, National Assembly, governorship and State Assembly candidates to begin consultations and engagements with stakeholders and constituents in their respective constituencies.

The party urged the candidates to work with state and local chapters to roll out campaign programmes to promote their candidacies and communicate the NDC’s message as a grassroots-oriented party.

“To all candidates, we are directing that they begin their familiarisation, sensitisation and consultations. Similarly, local campaign events can now continue,” the statement said.

The party added, “The party will soon release the composition of its campaign organs, which will be announced and inaugurated on a date to be announced.

“We direct all candidates across the country to begin their campaigns. State chapters, local government chapters and down to the wards should organise and draw up itineraries for their own local campaigns.”

The NDC said its campaigns would be guided by its commitment to issue-based politics, stressing that its candidates and supporters must avoid violence, abusive language and inflammatory rhetoric.

“In keeping with the ideology of NDC, the party reiterates that all campaigns must be issue-based and devoid of violence and foul language. The NDC has no room for violence,” it said.

The party also clarified the status of its logo, following reports and concerns about the appropriate symbol for its candidates and supporters to use during the campaign.

The NDC said it had, in consultation with INEC, modified its logo and formally notified the electoral commission of the change.

According to the party, administrative processes surrounding the replacement of the existing logo with the modified version are still being resolved.

It therefore directed candidates and members to continue using the existing logo — the two-finger victory sign — for campaign activities until the process is concluded.

“The NDC, in consultation with INEC, have also modified our logo and notified INEC appropriately, at a meeting INEC themselves attended with us,” the statement said. (The Nation)