2027: APC chieftain to challenge Tinubu for party’s presidential ticket
By Omeiza Ajayi
ABUJA – As the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepares for its presidential convention on May 23, the party’s efforts to unify support around President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid for 2027 have been disrupted. Edo State politician Osifo Stanley has emerged as the first candidate to publicly announce his intention to contest the party’s presidential primary against the incumbent.
Stanley’s announcement follows the APC’s national convention in March, during which key figures including governors and members of the National Assembly endorsed Tinubu as the sole candidate for the upcoming election. Following the convention, state chapters in Bauchi, Borno, Kebbi, Bayelsa, Cross River, Ekiti, and Lagos quickly endorsed the president, suggesting a consolidated field of support.
In remarks to reporters in Abuja, Stanley indicated that he has taken steps to formalize his candidacy by requesting the party’s account details to pay the necessary fees, underscoring that his declaration is serious and actionable.
“I firmly believe that we all have the right to exercise our constitutionally guaranteed rights to run,” Stanley stated, referencing both the APC constitution and the amended Electoral Act of 2026. He maintained that endorsements, no matter how widespread, do not replace the formal process of a primary election.
“There is no provision in our party’s constitution that states that endorsements automatically confer candidacy. Our party’s Constitution and Nigerian law affirm the right to run for office,” he explained.
When discussing his vision for Nigeria if awarded the party’s ticket, Stanley emphasized the importance of addressing economic and security challenges. “Our plan is to focus on how Nigeria can emerge from persistent economic difficulties and prioritize key areas for development,” he said, identifying the economy and security as foundational to further progress.
