Human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, saying he is offering Nigerians a fresh alternative to what he described as the country’s entrenched political establishment.
Sowore, who was the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2023 general election, made the declaration on Friday during an appearance on Channels Television’s programme, Politics Today.
He said the AAC would be holding its primaries next week but did not confirm whether he would emerge as the party’s sole candidate for the election.
“I am running to win,” Sowore said, adding that he believes Nigeria needs fresh ideas and a shift from the country’s current political direction.
He argued that political parties in Nigeria are largely the same, insisting that candidates with better ideas should be allowed to compete and win elections.
According to him, Nigeria is currently facing deeper economic and security challenges, which require urgent and different solutions.
Sowore also criticised Nigeria’s political leadership, saying the country’s current problems are the result of policies and decisions taken by successive administrations over the years.
He maintained that his ambition is driven by a desire to provide Nigerians with what he described as a genuine alternative to the mainstream political establishment.
The activist also commented on the ongoing digital membership registration exercise directed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noting that the AAC had not fully concluded its submission due to a court ruling allowing political parties to reopen their registration portals.
The 2027 presidential election will mark Sowore’s third attempt at Nigeria’s presidency under the AAC platform, having previously contested in both the 2019 and 2023 elections.
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