2027 Presidency: APC Says Tinubu Will Face Open Contest

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has said that, despite President Bola Tinubu’s widespread endorsement for a second term, its 2027 presidential ticket will remain open to other aspirants.

The clarification was given on Wednesday by the party’s National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Argungu, during a media session at the APC national secretariat in Abuja.

Argungu explained that while the party’s leadership — including the National Working Committee, the Progressives Governors Forum chaired by Governor Hope Uzodinma, and the National Assembly under Senator Godswill Akpabio — had endorsed Tinubu in recognition of what they described as his “notable performance,” APC would not foreclose competition.

“We will definitely not close our doors to other presidential aspirants,” he said. “When the time comes, our timetable will be released. Anybody who wishes to contest under APC will be free to purchase the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to exercise their rights.”

He stressed that the recent endorsement of Tinubu was a show of appreciation, not an attempt to shut out other contenders.

The clarification comes against the backdrop of comparisons with the Peoples Democratic Party’s decision in 2014 to reserve its sole presidential ticket for then-President Goodluck Jonathan.

Speaking further, Argungu highlighted APC’s performance in the recent by-elections, where the ruling party secured 13 out of 16 contested seats. He credited the victories to “the grace of Almighty Allah” and the collective efforts of APC leaders, members, and supporters nationwide.

“This is not just about numbers,” he said. “It is a reaffirmation of the trust Nigerians continue to place in our party and evidence of our capacity to deliver credible leadership and good governance.”