The Young Progressives Party has explained the decision by its female presidential candidate, Anita Zugwai-Chukwu, to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race.

Zugwai-Chukwu had emerged as the YPP’s presidential candidate at the party’s national convention in May, where she was adopted unopposed as its flag bearer for the 2027 general election.

However, the party subsequently changed its presidential candidate, prompting questions over why Zugwai-Chukwu stepped down from the race.

The YPP said the decision followed consultations within the party and was made in the interest of its broader political strategy ahead of the 2027 election.

The party maintained that the development did not reflect any crisis within its ranks, stressing that its structures remained intact and focused on participating actively in the election.

Zugwai-Chukwu had, while accepting the party's presidential ticket, pledged to prioritise the YPP’s ideology and collective responsibility over personal ambition.

She said Nigerians were demanding transparent, accountable and people-centred leadership and promised to uphold the party’s vision if elected.

The YPP leadership subsequently moved to resolve the change in its presidential ticket as it continued preparations for the 2027 elections.

The party said it remained committed to strengthening its national structure and presenting candidates capable of advancing its political agenda.

The development comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with INEC having published the particulars of presidential candidates and their running mates ahead of the polls.