The Young Progressives Party (YPP) has explained the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of its former presidential candidate, Mrs Anita Zugwai Chukwu, from the 2027 presidential race, dismissing claims that she was compelled to step down.
In a statement issued on Monday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Egbeola Wale Martins, said Chukwu voluntarily withdrew her candidacy after consultations with members of her immediate and extended family.
The party said Chukwu was validly nominated as its presidential candidate at its 3rd Elective National Convention and Presidential Primary held on May 30, 2026, where she received unanimous endorsement from members present.
According to the YPP, her emergence was based on her track record, competence, demonstrated excellence and perceived ability to implement the party’s manifesto, which promotes an egalitarian society founded on justice, equity, opportunity and prosperity.
However, the party said Chukwu formally communicated her decision to withdraw from the presidential race in a letter dated August 12, 2026.
It explained that her decision followed concerns expressed by members of her family over the country’s security situation and the demands associated with a presidential campaign, including extensive travelling, public appearances and increased exposure ahead of the 2027 general election.
The YPP maintained that Chukwu’s withdrawal was entirely voluntary and that she was neither pressured nor intimidated into taking the decision.
“Mrs. Anita Zugwai Chukwu’s decision was freely and voluntarily taken,” the party said, adding that there was “no coercion, intimidation, pressure or undue influence from the Party or any individual.”
The party urged the public and the media to disregard reports suggesting otherwise.
Following Chukwu’s withdrawal, the YPP said it considered several options to replace her with another qualified female presidential aspirant.
However, the party said the efforts did not produce a suitable replacement, prompting it to conduct a substitution primary.
Dr Peter Agada subsequently emerged as the party’s new presidential candidate after he was affirmed by members at a Special Presidential Substitution Primary held on Friday, August 21, 2026.
The YPP said Agada was selected in line with its commitment to presenting a candidate with the competence, capacity, character and commitment required to advance its progressive ideals.
The party also rejected suggestions that Agada’s emergence had diminished Chukwu’s role or contributions to the YPP.
It described her as an important member of the party and commended her courage, sacrifice and commitment to its progressive ideals.
The YPP further restated its commitment to inclusion and equal opportunity, saying it does not discriminate against Nigerians on the basis of gender, age, disability or any other status.
It added that qualified Nigerians would continue to have equal opportunities, irrespective of gender, to participate in politics and contribute to national development.
The party urged its members, supporters and the media to disregard rumours and speculative reports surrounding Chukwu’s withdrawal.
It said the YPP remained “focused, united and resolute” in its determination to offer Nigerians credible, competent and progressive leadership ahead of the 2027 general election.
