2027 Presidency: Tinubu, Jonathan, Atiku, Obi, Makinde Lead Expanding Field as Political Battle Intensifies
As Nigeria moves closer to the January 16, 2027 general election, the race for the nation’s highest office is gradually taking shape, with several political parties already unveiling their Presidential candidates.
Out of the 22 Political Parties registered by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), at least 10 have produced Presidential candidates as of May 31, 2026, setting the stage for what is expected to be a fiercely contested election.
The emerging political landscape reveals an incumbent President seeking a second term, alongside former President, Governors, Lawmakers, and political heavyweights. It also highlights growing divisions within some opposition parties, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Social Democratic Party (SDP), where rival factions have produced different candidates.
Tinubu Flies APC Flag
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has secured the Presidential ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and will seek re-election in 2027.
Tinubu, who became President in 2023, previously served as Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007. Widely regarded as one of the architects of the APC, he played a pivotal role in the formation of the ruling party and was instrumental in the election victory of former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015.
PDP Divided as Rival Factions Produce Candidates
The PDP remains split into factions, each backing a different Presidential candidate.
One faction aligned with former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has nominated Senator Sandy Onor as its Presidential candidate. Onor represented Cross River Central Senatorial District in the Senate from 2019 to 2023 and previously contested for Governor in Cross River State.
Another PDP faction led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki has declared former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate in absentia. Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president between 2010 and 2015 after rising through the ranks from Deputy Governor and Governor of Bayelsa State to Vice President and eventually President following the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
Although Jonathan has yet to publicly address the nomination in detail, his emergence has sparked fresh political discussions nationwide.
Atiku Emerges in ADC Factional Contest
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has emerged as the Presidential candidate of a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Atiku, who served as Vice President between 1999 and 2007, is one of Nigeria’s most experienced politicians and has contested for the presidency multiple times, including in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
However, the ADC remains divided, with another faction retaining Dumebi Kachikwu as its Presidential candidate. Kachikwu gained National prominence after contesting the 2023 presidential election under the ADC platform. He is also the younger brother of former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Ibe Kachikwu.
Sowore Returns Under AAC
Human rights activist, Journalist, and Sahara Reporters founder Omoyele Sowore has once again secured the Presidential ticket of the African Action Congress (AAC).
Sowore has been the face of the party since its formation and is making another attempt at the Presidency after previous contests.
SDP Produces Rival Candidates
The Social Democratic Party has also witnessed internal divisions.
Businessman and lawyer Adewole Adebayo has emerged as the Presidential candidate of one SDP faction. Adebayo previously contested for the presidency under the party and remains one of its most recognisable figures.
Another faction led by Shehu Gabam has presented Abimbola Akeem Atanda as its candidate for the 2027 election.
Peter Obi Joins NDC, Picks Kwankwaso as Running Mate
Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has emerged as the Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) following his departure from the Labour Party.
Obi, who governed Anambra State between 2006 and 2014 and became a major force in the 2023 election, has selected former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as his running mate, creating what many observers see as a potentially influential political alliance.
Makinde Emerges APM Candidate
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has secured the Presidential ticket of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
Makinde, currently serving his second term as Governor, has become one of the most prominent political figures in the South-West and is expected to play a significant role in the 2027 contest.
Other Candidates in the Race
The Action Democratic Party (ADP) has nominated Aliyu Bin Abbas, a former aide to Atiku Abubakar, as its Presidential candidate.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party has presented Dr Chibuzo Okereke as its candidate. Okereke is a governance expert, policy strategist, legislative consultant, and lecturer in Public Policy and Administration at Miva Open University, Abuja.
Former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke has also emerged as the Presidential candidate of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP). Duke served as Governor from 1999 to 2007 and remains a notable figure in Nigerian politics.
Political Contest Takes Shape
With months still remaining before the official campaign season enters full swing, political analysts expect more realignments, alliances, defections, and legal battles as parties seek to strengthen their positions ahead of the 2027 Presidential election.
The growing number of candidates and factional disputes within major opposition parties could significantly influence the dynamics of the race, while President Tinubu’s bid for a second term is expected to remain one of the defining issues of the election season.
Global Mirror News will continue to monitor developments as Nigeria’s political landscape evolves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
