The Young Progressives Party (YPP) has clarified the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of its former presidential candidate, Mrs Anita Zugwai Chukwu, from the 2027 presidential race, saying that her decision was voluntary and motivated by concerns over the prevailing security situation in the country.
The party, in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Egbeola Wale Martins, said Chukwu was validly nominated as the presidential candidate of the party at its Third National Elective Convention and Presidential Primaries held on May 30, 2026.
According to the YPP, members present at the convention voted unanimously for Chukwu to fly the party’s flag in the 2027 general election.
The party said its emergence was based on its track record, competence, demonstrated excellence and ability to implement its manifesto, which it said was anchored on building an egalitarian society where justice, equity, opportunities and prosperity would be accessible to all Nigerians.
However, the YPP said Chukwu later communicated his decision to withdraw from the presidential race in a letter dated August 12, 2026.
He explained that the former candidate made the decision after consultations with members of her immediate and extended family, particularly due to security concerns arising from the extensive travel, movement and public exposure associated with a presidential campaign.
“After careful consideration, he decided to step aside, intending to take advantage of a safer opportunity to serve the country in the future,” the party said.
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The YPP dismissed reports suggesting Chukwu was pressured or forced to retire, insisting her decision was made freely and voluntarily.
“The YPP wishes to categorically state that Mrs Anita Zugwai Chukwu’s decision was made freely and voluntarily. There was no coercion, intimidation, pressure or undue influence on the part of the Party or any individual,” the statement said.
Following her withdrawal, the party said it explored options to replace her with another suitably qualified female candidate, but was unable to achieve the goal.
The party said it refused to compromise its standards by settling for a candidate it considered unsuitable, and emphasized that competence, ability, character and commitment to its progressive ideals remained fundamental to its choice of presidential candidate.
Consequently, Dr. Peter Agada emerged as the party’s preferred candidate in a Special Presidential Replacement Primary held on Friday, August 21, 2026. The YPP said Agada was duly affirmed through the votes of party members.
The party also rejected suggestions that Agada’s emergence had diminished Chukwu’s contributions to the party, saying it remained proud of her and appreciated her “courage, sacrifice and commitment” to its progressive ideals.
The YPP further reiterated its commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities, saying it does not discriminate on the basis of gender, age, disability or any other status.
He said qualified Nigerians would continue to have opportunities to meaningfully participate in politics, regardless of their gender.
The party urged its members, supporters and media to ignore what it described as unfounded rumors and speculative accounts about Chukwu’s retirement.
He said the YPP remained focused, united and determined in its determination to provide Nigerians with credible, competent and progressive leadership in the 2027 general elections.
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