Governor Chukwuma Soludo has announced that the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) will not present a presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections, opting instead for a strategy built on political alliances.
Soludo made this known during a media chat shortly after his inauguration for a second term in office, where he openly expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid.
According to the governor, his position is driven by what he described as the “enlightened self-interest” of the people of Anambra State and the wider South-East region.
He noted that while individuals may hold differing political views, his priority remains securing tangible benefits and relevance for his people within Nigeria’s political structure.
“President Tinubu is my friend, and I believe he has done well and deserves a second term. I have no apologies about that; this is my position,” Soludo stated.
He explained that APGA’s decision is not unprecedented, recalling that the party adopted former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2011 election rather than fielding its own candidate.
Soludo stressed the need for a return to coalition-based politics, drawing inspiration from Nigeria’s early political history.
He referenced the approach of Nnamdi Azikiwe, who championed alliances as a means of fostering unity and achieving political goals.
“We need to get back to the politics of alliances. It is not about protest politics but about building bridges that deliver results,” he said.
The governor added that supporting a broader national coalition could help ensure that the South-East secures a stronger voice at the federal level.
He argued that aligning with a likely winning side would provide the region with better access to decision-making processes and national opportunities.
“President Tinubu will win with or without us, but my people deserve a seat at the table,” Soludo added.
The announcement signals APGA’s strategic direction ahead of the 2027 elections, with the party prioritising collaboration over direct presidential contest as it seeks to strengthen its influence within Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
