2027 Presidency: Major Political Parties Unveil Candidates Ahead of Election
With Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election expected to hold in January, major political parties have begun unveiling their candidates as preparations intensify ahead of the polls.
Following nationwide primaries and consensus arrangements by different parties, attention has shifted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which is expected to receive the names and details of candidates from political parties before the official deadline.
From the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to newer political platforms, several contenders have already emerged as flagbearers for the race to succeed or challenge the current administration.
APC Fields Tinubu for Second Term
The ruling APC has returned President Bola Tinubu as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election after he secured victory in the party’s primary election.
Tinubu, who won the 2023 presidential election, will be seeking a second term in office. The former Lagos State governor and ex-senator remains the candidate to beat as the APC continues to control the Federal Government.
The party is yet to officially announce whether Vice President Kashim Shettima will remain his running mate.
Atiku Emerges ADC Candidate
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has secured the presidential ticket of the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC).
Atiku defeated former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and businessman Mohammed Hayatudeen during the party’s primary election.
The Adamawa-born politician is making another attempt at the presidency after contesting several previous elections. He was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2023 election, where he finished second.
Peter Obi Gets NDC Ticket
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has confirmed former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi as its presidential candidate.
Obi, who contested the 2023 election under the Labour Party, emerged as the party’s flagbearer and later announced former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso as his running mate.
The former governor enjoys significant support among young voters and on social media platforms, making him one of the major contenders in the 2027 race.
YPP Picks Female Candidate
The Young Progressives Party (YPP) has nominated Anita Zugwai-Chukwu as its presidential candidate.
Zugwai-Chukwu, who currently serves as the party’s National Women Leader, emerged unopposed during the party’s national convention.
Her emergence makes her one of the few female candidates expected to feature prominently in the presidential contest.
Makinde Leads APM Ticket
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has been adopted as the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
The engineer-turned-politician, who has governed Oyo State since 2019, said his administration would focus on restructuring the nation’s security architecture if elected president.
The party is yet to announce a vice-presidential candidate.
Labour Party Divided Over Candidates
The Labour Party remains divided, with two factions producing separate presidential candidates.
The faction led by Julius Abure adopted Kennedy Ahanotu, the party’s National Youth Leader, as its candidate through a consensus arrangement.
Meanwhile, the faction loyal to Nenadi Usman announced Chibuzo Okereke, a public policy expert and university lecturer, as its own presidential candidate.
The situation has further highlighted the internal crisis within the party ahead of the election.
PDP Factions Present Different Aspirants
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is also facing internal divisions, with rival factions backing different candidates.
One faction reportedly adopted former Senator Sandy Onor as its consensus candidate, while another group is pushing for former President Goodluck Jonathan to fly the party’s flag in 2027.
Sowore Returns for AAC
Human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, has once again emerged as the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC).
Sowore, a long-time advocate for political reforms and social justice, has contested previous presidential elections and remains one of the most recognised faces among smaller opposition parties.
Donald Duke Gets PRP Ticket
Former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke has secured the presidential ticket of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP).
Duke defeated his challenger, Kingsley Yakubu, during the party’s primary election to emerge as its candidate for the 2027 presidential race.
As political parties conclude their nomination processes, Nigerians are expected to witness heightened campaigns and alliances in the months leading up to the 2027 general election. INEC is expected to receive and verify candidates submitted by the various parties before the official campaign season begins.
