Labour Party’s Youth Leader Ahanotu Declares for 2027 Presidency

Kennedy Ahanotu, the National Youth Leader of the Labour Party, has thrown his hat into the ring for the 2027 presidential election.

In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Ahanotu declared his intention to offer Nigeria a “fresh start” rooted in institutional reforms, patriotism, and competence.

According to Ahanotu, “I am contesting for the highest office in the land to offer Nigeria and Nigerians a fresh start rooted in institutional transformations and overhauling, so that together we can rise again.”

He emphasized the need for a generational shift and a departure from the old political order that has dominated Nigeria’s leadership.

Ahanotu cited examples of Nigeria’s founding leaders who achieved great things at a young age, including former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, who was 29 when he assumed power.

“Every man is born for a purpose. I believe that I carry the burden of impactful leadership. Hence, there is no better time to start the pursuit of the vision than now,” he said.

When asked about his eligibility, Ahanotu argued that he remains morally, academically, constitutionally, emotionally, and mentally qualified to be Nigeria’s next president, despite being 41. He also hinted that he would step aside as National Youth Leader when the time comes to pursue his presidential ambition.

On the possibility of stepping down if the party leadership endorses another candidate, Ahanotu maintained that he is a loyal party man bound by the party constitution. “Until such reality dawns before I can be able to answer this because as a loyal party man, I am bound by the party constitution and internal mechanism of my political party,” he said.

Regarding campaign funding, Ahanotu declined to give details but acknowledged the financial demands of a presidential run. “I believe when the time comes for nomination/expression of interest purchase, we’ll see if money can stop us,” he said.

PUNCH