Children of ex-presidents, governors in 2027 National Assembly race

As the 2027 Nigerian general elections loom, the spotlight is shifting to children of influential political families. The International Centre for Investigative Reporting's September 2026 infographic highlights a dozen young politicians who are seeking seats in the National Assembly. These candidates include descendants of former presidents, vice-presidents, governors, and the Senate President.

Among them is Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, daughter of late House of Representatives member Jimoh Abdul Akpoti, who is vying for Kogi Central's senatorial seat. Another is Iyabo Obasanjo, granddaughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, competing for Ogun Central. Yusuf Buhari, son of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, is also in the race for Katsina State.

Bello El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, represents Kaduna North. Chinedum Orji, son of former Abia State Governor Theodore Orji, contests the Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South seat. Adamu Atiku, son of ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, is linked to the 2027 race in Adamawa State. Blessing Onuh, daughter of former Senate President David Mark, fights to keep her seat in Benue's Otukpo/Ohimini.

Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, granddaughter of former Delta State Governor James Ibori, represents Ethiope East/Ethiope West. Gabriella Igbinedion, granddaughter of business mogul and politician Gabriel Igbinedion, is associated with Edo State's Ovia North-East/Ovia South-West. Olumide Osoba, son of former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba, represents Abeokuta North/Odeda/Obafemi-Owode in the House of Representatives.

Adegboyega Adefarati, son of late Ondo State Governor Adebayo Adefarati, seeks re-election for Akoko South-East/Akoko South-West. Finally, Olamiju Alao-Akala, son of late Oyo State Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, participates in Oyo State's Orire/Ogbomoso North/Ogbomoso South contest.