ADC bars aspirants over 55 from contesting positions

According to the factional National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nafiu Bala Gombe, the party will disqualify candidates aged 55 and above from contesting all political positions under his leadership. The announcement, made during an interview with BBC Hausa on April 10, 2026, establishes a strict age limit for party participation effective immediately.

Gombe emphasized that the policy is designed to ensure generational change, stating that Nigeria's future depends on young leadership. 'If you are over 55 years old, you are not going to contest for positions in the ADC under our leadership,' he declared, explaining that the party aims to bring 'fresh blood, new ideas, and energy from the youth.'

This move positions ADC as the first major Nigerian political party to implement such an age restriction, potentially setting a precedent for other parties. The policy directly contrasts with current Nigerian electoral laws which set no upper age limit for political candidates. With Nigeria's 2027 elections approaching, this decision could significantly reshape the political landscape by limiting participation of older politicians while creating new opportunities for younger candidates in ADC.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/04/10/2027-bala-declares-aspirants-over-55-years-disqualified-in-adc/