Fresh signs of internal tension have surfaced in the All Progressives Congress (APC) after an Edo-born politician, Osifo Stanley, declared his intention to contest the party’s 2027 presidential ticket against President Bola Tinubu.

The move comes despite widespread endorsements positioning Tinubu as the party’s consensus candidate.

Aspirant Rejects ‘Consensus’ Narrative

Speaking in Abuja, Stanley said he had already taken steps to formalise his ambition, including requesting the party’s account details to pay nomination fees.

He insisted that endorsements do not replace the constitutional process of primaries.

“I believe strongly that we all have the right to enjoy our constitutionally-guaranteed rights to run,” he said.

‘Endorsement Is Not a Ticket’

The aspirant argued that no provision in the APC constitution or Nigerian law allows endorsements to automatically produce a candidate.

“There is no such law in our party’s Constitution… endorsement is not a pathway to becoming the candidate,” he said.

He added that both party rules and electoral laws recognise the right of members to contest.

Tinubu Backed by Party Structure

Stanley’s declaration comes weeks after the APC’s national convention in March, where governors, lawmakers and other stakeholders adopted Tinubu as sole candidate.

Several state chapters, including Lagos, Borno, Kebbi and Ekiti, had also endorsed the president, creating what appeared to be a unified front.

Focus on Economy, Security

Outlining his vision, the aspirant said his campaign would prioritise economic recovery and national security.

“Our plan is to see how Nigeria can get out of lingering economic tension… the economy and security are the foundation,” he said.

The development signals early cracks within the ruling party as preparations for the 2027 election intensify across Nigeria’s political landscape.