The race for the 2027 presidential ticket of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has taken a new turn following the endorsement of Bauchi-born politician and development economist, Dr. Ibrahim Waziri, by a coalition of party stakeholders across the country.
The development is expected to intensify internal competition within the opposition party, particularly amid growing speculation that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, may seek the party’s presidential ticket ahead of the next general election.
At a stakeholders’ meeting attended by party leaders and supporters from more than 30 states, Waziri emerged as the group’s preferred candidate for the 2027 presidential election through a unanimous endorsement.
The stakeholders claimed that the decision enjoys the support of influential party figures across the 19 Northern states, positioning Waziri as a strong contender for the party’s presidential nomination.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Isa Mohammed said Waziri’s support base cuts across regional and political divides, unlike other aspirants being linked to the race.
According to him, Waziri enjoys the backing of key political actors across the country and is well-positioned to lead the party into the 2027 presidential contest.
“Makinde’s support is restricted to Oyo and Osun states where he was pronounced as a presidential candidate. We are confident that Dr. Ibrahim is receiving the support of politicians that matter across Nigeria who are positioned to take over power in 2027,” Mohammed said.
He also expressed confidence that Waziri would eventually emerge as the candidate officially recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Waziri, a native of Ningi Local Government Area of Bauchi State, has had a long career in Nigerian politics dating back to the Third Republic. He was among participants at the 1993 presidential primaries of the Social Democratic Party in Jos, which produced the late MKO Abiola as the party’s flag bearer.
Over the years, he has contested for various elective offices, including governorship and senatorial positions, earning a reputation among supporters as a grassroots politician with extensive political experience.
Beyond politics, Waziri is known for his contributions to Nigeria’s indigenous computer and telecommunications sector. He studied Political Economy, Accounting, Software and Data Processing in the United States and holds a doctorate degree in Political Economy.
His profile recently received a boost following his installation as Sarkin Sullubawan Bauchi by the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleimanu Adamu.
In justifying their endorsement, the stakeholders cited Waziri’s experience in governance, economic management and nation-building, arguing that Nigeria requires leadership capable of tackling insecurity, poverty, national disunity and weak institutions.
According to the group, Waziri’s agenda focuses on national security, poverty alleviation, national unity and democratic accountability, which they described as critical priorities for the country’s future.
Efforts to obtain reactions from party figures linked to Makinde’s reported presidential ambition were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
Although political parties are yet to formally commence the process of selecting presidential candidates, the endorsement underscores growing political realignments and early positioning ahead of what is expected to be a fiercely contested 2027 presidential election.
