Efforts by the All Progressives Congress to maintain a unified front ahead of its May 23 presidential convention have encountered a new challenge, as Edo born politician Osifo Stanley officially declared his intention to contest the party’s presidential primary against incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Stanley’s declaration comes despite earlier endorsements by APC governors, National Assembly members, and party stakeholders who had backed Tinubu as the sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election. Several state chapters had also aligned with the President, reinforcing what appeared to be a consensus within the ruling party.
Speaking in Abuja, Stanley made it clear that his ambition goes beyond mere rhetoric, revealing that he has already requested the party’s financial details to pay the required nomination fees. He emphasized that his decision is rooted in constitutional rights and internal party democracy.
According to him, endorsements do not replace the formal electoral process. He argued that neither the APC constitution nor Nigeria’s electoral laws recognize endorsement as a substitute for a valid primary election. Stanley maintained that every qualified member has the right to contest, regardless of prior agreements or political alignments.
Framing his campaign message, he identified Nigeria’s economic challenges and security concerns as his top priorities. He noted that addressing these two areas is essential for national ility and long term development.
His entry into the race introduces an element of competition into what had been shaping up as a largely uncontested path for Tinubu within the APC. It also raises questions about how the party will balance internal democracy with its desire for unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As the convention approaches, Stanley’s move may test the strength of the party’s consensus strategy and set the tone for intra party dynamics in the months ahead.
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