Why our female candidate quit 2027 presidential race, YPP

The Young Progressives Party (YPP) has clarified that its former presidential candidate for the 2027 election, Anita Chukwu, withdrew from the race voluntarily due to family concerns about the prevailing security situation in Nigeria. The party emphasized that her decision was not influenced by any external pressure.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Egbeola Wale-Martins, the YPP explained that Chukwu formally communicated her withdrawal in a letter dated August 12, 2026. The party stated that Chukwu's decision stemmed from extensive consultations with her immediate and extended family, who advised against her participation due to the risks associated with a nationwide presidential campaign. The concerns focused on the extensive travel and public exposure inherent in such a campaign, particularly given the current security climate.

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According to her, the decision was reached after extensive consideration of advice from members of her family concerning the prevailing security situation in several parts of the country.

Chukwu had been nominated as the YPP's presidential candidate at the party's convention on May 30, 2026, based on her track record and perceived capacity to implement the party's manifesto. However, after reconsidering her participation, she opted to step aside, leaving open the possibility of serving the country at a future, safer opportunity. The YPP stressed that her decision was freely and voluntarily made, without coercion or undue influence from the party or any individual.

Following Chukwu's withdrawal, the YPP attempted to find another suitable female candidate but was unsuccessful. Consequently, the party held a fresh presidential substitution primary on August 21, 2026, which resulted in Peter Agada being affirmed as the new YPP presidential candidate. The party asserted that it refused to compromise its standards in selecting a replacement.

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The YPP wishes to state categorically that Mrs Anita Zugwai Chukwu’s decision was freely and voluntarily taken. There was no coercion, intimidation, pressure or undue influence from the party or any individual. Any contrary narrative is unfounded and should be disregarded.