2027: DLA gov’ship candidates endorse Tinubu

A forum of governorship candidates under the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) platform has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election, pledging to collapse their political structures nationwide to secure his victory.

The endorsement was publicly declared on Friday during a press conference in Abuja, led by the forum’s chairman and governorship candidate for Taraba State, Aboki Bayonga.

Addressing journalists alongside fellow candidates, Bayonga confirmed that the forum would collaborate with the political group, Arewa for Asiwaju (A4A) to mobilise grassroots support for the president across the country.

Clarifying their stance, the forum emphasised that while they back President Tinubu for the presidency, they are not defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Bayonga explained that the decision stemmed from the fact that the DLA currently lacks a presidential candidate for the 2027 race.

“DLA candidates will continue to pursue their own political ambitions, including governorship, senatorial and state legislative seats on the DLA ticket,” he said.

Aboki explained that after carefully evaluating various political aspirants across the country, President Tinubu stood out for delivering tangible developmental results across the region and country.

He cited the implementation and expansion of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund), saying it has provided critical financial relief for thousands of students and youths across the northern states.

He added that President Tinubu’s agricultural empowerment initiatives, which distributed vital farming equipment, subsidised fertilisers, tractors, trailers, and provided direct cash support (including N50,000 stipends/grants), have significantly boosted rural farming communities.

According to him, significant federal investment in heavy-duty, solid road network expansions has connected rural farm centers to city markets across the northern states.

He clarified that they are still in race for their governorship in their respective states under their DLA party and would support any other candidates under the party.

He said, “We don’t have a separate presidential candidate. We looked at other aspirants, but we found that the present administration has delivered real progress. About 15 of us met and agreed unanimously to work together for President Tinubu while building our positions at the state level.”

The coalition reiterated its commitment to grassroots mobilisation as political consultations continue ahead of upcoming election cycles.

Our correspondent reports that the DLA governorship candidates in Adamawa, Taraba, Plateau, Osun and Delta states attended the briefing.