The All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party, announced on Wednesday that its presidential ticket for the upcoming 2027 general election is still open to candidates.
During a press briefing in Abuja, Sulaiman Argungu, the APC National Organising Secretary, refuted rumors suggesting that the party would issue a single presidential nomination form exclusively for Tinubu, thereby preventing other party leaders from competing for the ticket.
Argungu emphasized that while both the National Working Committee and various state chapters have endorsed President Tinubu as the preferred candidate, the process remains accessible to all potential candidates.
“It is the desire of the party, and we, the NWC, have already supported President Tinubu as the next presidential candidate. Additionally, other party organs have similarly endorsed him,” he stated.
“Governors across the states have also expressed their support. This endorsement has been echoed in all six geographical zones of the nation. However, this does not imply that the opportunity is closed.
“We will certainly keep our doors open. When the appropriate time arrives, we will announce our timetable. Anyone aspiring to be the president under the APC will not be denied the chance to acquire the expression of interest and nomination forms to exercise their rights.
“We have never claimed that we have shut the door. We are merely conveying our appreciation for the President’s contributions to the nation and affirming that he merits a second term in office, as we recently endorsed him.”
“Democracy does not allow for dictatorship. Although the majority of our members have supported President Tinubu, any other candidate wishing to run under the APC banner will still be permitted to do so.”
He also reassured that the APC would adhere to the timetable set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act to guarantee a credible and inclusive selection process.
Argungu stated that the victories achieved in regions historically governed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the recent by-elections demonstrate the electorate’s trust in the APC’s vision and manifesto, serving as evidence of the increasing confidence in the ruling party and President Tinubu’s administration.
