Prof. Christopher Imumolen, the presidential candidate of a faction of the Accord Party and its factional National Chairman, has officially withdrawn from the 2027 presidential race and pledged his support for President Bola Tinubu's re-election bid. Imumolen announced his decision on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, in Abuja, following extensive consultations with party leadership, describing the move as a patriotic sacrifice rather than a political concession.
In a statement reported by Daily Trust, Imumolen said: "Following my emergence as the presidential candidate of the Accord Party during the duly conducted presidential primaries, I, in consultation with the leadership of the party, made the patriotic decision to withdraw from the presidential race and fully support the re-election of President Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. This decision was not borne out of personal interest, but from a deep conviction that the unity, stability, and continued progress of Nigeria must take precedence over personal political ambition."
Reasons for Endorsing Tinubu
According to TheCable, Imumolen listed 10 reasons for endorsing the President, arguing that Tinubu's reform agenda closely aligns with his own manifesto on economic transformation, education, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, industrialisation, and national development. He praised Tinubu's capacity to navigate Nigeria's complex political and economic terrain, noting that the President had shown "uncommon courage, determination, and strategic leadership worthy of emulation."
Imumolen also highlighted Tinubu's track record of identifying capable people, building consensus across divides, and making difficult decisions for the country's benefit. He argued that Tinubu is uniquely placed to bridge the gap between Nigeria's founding democratic leaders and a younger generation of transformational figures.
Economic Confidence and Institutional Reforms
On the economy, Imumolen acknowledged current hardships but expressed confidence in the President's policy direction. "In spite of current economic challenges, I remain convinced that Tinubu's policy direction, fiscal discipline, and decisive leadership would reposition Nigeria's economy for sustainable prosperity," he stated. He also credited Tinubu's commitment to institutional reforms and continuity as a source of confidence in Nigeria's long-term prospects.
The withdrawal, which was initially announced on Sunday, August 3, 2026, came after consultations with Accord Party leadership, with Imumolen citing national interest over personal ambition. The former candidate pointed to Tinubu's reform agenda as closely matching his own manifesto on economic transformation and youth empowerment.
Impact on 2027 Political Landscape
Imumolen's withdrawal marks a significant shift in the 2027 presidential race, reducing the number of candidates and consolidating support for the incumbent. His endorsement of Tinubu adds to a growing list of political figures backing the President's re-election, potentially influencing voter perceptions and party alignments.
Political analysts note that Imumolen's decision could strengthen Tinubu's campaign, particularly among supporters of the Accord Party faction, though the party remains divided. The move also underscores the importance of national unity and stability in political calculations ahead of the 2027 elections.
