The National Youth Leader of the Labour Party, Kennedy Ahanotu, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, becoming the first aspirant in the party to openly join the race.
Ahanotu made the declaration in an exclusive interview with The PUNCH on Tuesday, saying Nigeria needs a “fresh start” rooted in institutional reforms, patriotism and competence.
According to him, Nigeria is in urgent need of a generational shift and a departure from the old political order that has dominated the country’s leadership.
“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.
“At the point where we are today, I think that things have been muddled up too badly that we need to press the industrial reset button so we can start afresh to build a sustainable democracy that works for all Nigerians,” he stated.
The 41-year-old youth leader argued that many of Nigeria’s founding leaders and post-independence heroes were in their 20s and 30s when they assumed positions of authority, 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 added.
While noting that his age already places him behind the youthful age bracket of past leaders, Ahanotu said he remains morally, academically, constitutionally, emotionally, and mentally qualified to be Nigeria’s next president.
Responding to a question on whether he would relinquish his position as youth leader in light of his presidential ambition, Ahanotu said it was not a constitutional requirement but hinted that he would step aside when the time comes.
“The constitution of my party does not stipulate that I give up my position to aspire for a political elective position.
“However, I don’t mind when the time comes or when we get to a certain point because I believe there is a higher calling for greater leadership impact if I become the next president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he stated.
On the possibility of stepping down if the party leadership under Julius Abure endorses another candidate, the LP youth leader maintained that he remains a loyal party man.
“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.
‘For me, it’s always wisdom to obey convincing institutional (party) directives,” Ahanotu said.
Asked how he plans to fund his campaign and whether he has a political godfather, the youth leader declined to give details but admitted he was aware of the financial demands of a presidential run.
“Well, I don’t have to talk about that now because I do understand adequately what it takes to run for presidency, given the current monetisation reality of our electoral system.
“I believe when the time comes for nomination/expression of interest purchase, we’ll see if money can stop us,” he said.
