Why our female candidate quit 2027 presidential race — YPP

The Young Progressives Party (YPP) revealed that its former presidential candidate, Anita Chukwu, chose to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race due to her family's concerns regarding the security situation in various parts of the country. This decision, announced on August 12, 2026, came after Chukwu formally submitted a letter to the party leadership expressing her voluntary withdrawal.

The party had nominated Chukwu as their presidential candidate at the 3rd Elective National Convention held on May 30, 2026, after a unanimous vote in her favor. Chukwu's candidacy was based on her track record, competence, and her ability to implement the party's manifesto, which emphasized building an egalitarian society with a focus on justice, equity, opportunity, and prosperity.

However, she later reconsidered her participation after consulting her family and taking into account the extensive travels, movements, and public exposure associated with a nationwide presidential campaign ahead of the 2027 election. The YPP emphasized that Chukwu's decision was not due to pressure from the party or any individual, and that she left the door open for a future opportunity to serve the country.

Following her withdrawal, the party attempted to replace her with another qualified female candidate but could not find a suitable replacement, leading to a new presidential substitution primary on August 21, 2026. The newly elected candidate was Peter Agada. Despite her withdrawal, Chukwu remains an important member of the party, valued for her contributions to its progressive agenda.

The YPP strongly rejected any suggestion that her withdrawal reflected a departure from their commitment to gender inclusion, reaffirming their stance that they are a party of equal opportunity for all Nigerians, regardless of gender.