Kennedy Ahanotu, the National Youth Leader of the Labour Party (LP), has officially announced his intention to run for president in the 2027 general elections.
With this declaration, Ahanotu becomes the first party member to openly join the presidential race under the LP banner.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with DAILY GAZETTE on Tuesday, the 41-year-old expressed that Nigeria needs a clean slate built on reform, patriotism, and capable 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,” Ahanotu stated.
“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.”
Arguing for a generational shift in leadership, Ahanotu pointed to historical examples of young leaders in Nigeria’s past, such as former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, who assumed power at just 29 years old.
“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.
Though he acknowledged that he may be older than some past youthful leaders, Ahanotu insisted that he is fully qualified for the presidency in every essential aspect—moral, academic, constitutional, emotional, and mental.
Addressing whether he would vacate his position as LP Youth Leader due to his presidential ambition, he clarified that it was not required by party rules, but he is open to stepping aside when the time is right.
“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,” Ahanotu said.
On the possibility of withdrawing from the race if LP’s leadership, under Julius Abure, endorses another aspirant, Ahanotu said he remains a loyal party member and would adhere to internal processes.
“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,” he said.
When questioned about campaign funding and whether he had any political godfather, Ahanotu declined to go into detail, though he acknowledged the cost involved in a presidential bid.
“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.
