Why our female candidate stepped down from the 2027 presidential race, YPP

The Young Progressives Party has announced that its former presidential candidate, Anita Chukwu, decided to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race. This decision came after her family shared concerns about the security situation in some areas of the country.

The party released a statement on Monday from its National Publicity Secretary, Egbeola Wale-Martins. Chukwu officially informed the party leadership of her choice in a letter dated August 12, 2026.

This statement aimed to clarify what the party called rumours and misleading information about why she left the presidential race.

Chukwu was picked as the YPP presidential candidate at the party’s 3rd Elective National Convention and Presidential Primary on May 30, 2026. Party members at the convention voted for her to represent YPP in the 2027 general election.

The party stated that her nomination was based on her experience, skills, and ability to carry out its manifesto. This manifesto focuses on creating a fair society based on justice, equity, opportunity, and prosperity.

But later on, YPP said Chukwu reconsidered her decision to run after talking with her family. "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," the statement noted.

The party pointed out that there were specific worries about the need for extensive travel and public appearances that come with running a nationwide presidential campaign ahead of the 2027 election.

As a result, Chukwu decided to step down but left the door open to serve the country at a safer time in the future. YPP made it clear that her choice was not due to pressure from the party or anyone else.

"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," the party said.

After her withdrawal, the party tried to find another qualified female candidate to replace her but was unsuccessful. This led to a new presidential substitution primary on Friday, August 21, 2026, where Peter Agada was chosen as the party’s new presidential candidate after receiving approval from YPP members.

The party said it maintained high standards in selecting a replacement, insisting that the candidate must have the skills, character, and commitment needed to promote its political goals. Still, YPP emphasized that Chukwu’s position in the party remains strong.

YPP described her as a valued member who contributes to its progressive agenda. The party also dismissed claims that Chukwu’s withdrawal showed a lack of commitment to gender inclusion.

"The YPP also reiterates unequivocally that we are a party of inclusion and equal opportunity. We do not discriminate against anyone on the basis of gender, age, disability, or any other status. Our commitment to inclusive governance is fundamental to our identity as a progressive political party," it added.

YPP promised to keep creating opportunities for qualified Nigerians, regardless of gender, to engage in politics and support national growth. The party urged its supporters, the media, and the public to ignore what it called false narratives about Chukwu’s withdrawal.