2027: Onyeama joins presidential race

Francis Onyema has formally begun consultations ahead of his 2027 presidential bid, reaching out to former Nigerian leaders and influential figures across the country.

The 38-year-old political scientist from Delta State has written to ex-presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, notifying them of his intention to contest for the nation’s top office under the platform of the National Rescue Movement (NRM).

Beyond the former presidents, Onyema also extended similar communication to prominent traditional rulers and public figures, including the Oba of Benin, the Emir of Kano, and human rights lawyer Femi Falana, as part of broader consultations.

Sources within his camp revealed that the outreach is a prelude to his official declaration, which is scheduled to take place on March 25, 2026, in Abuja.

Onyema, who positions himself as a proponent of policy-driven governance, has consistently advocated for a shift away from conventional political practices. He argues that Nigeria’s leadership recruitment process should prioritize competence, ideas, and practical solutions over rhetoric and financial influence.

At the planned declaration event, he is expected to unveil a detailed essay titled From the Political Class to the Reformist (Solution) Class, which outlines his vision for governance and national development.

In his proposal, Onyema emphasizes that elections should center on well-articulated plans capable of addressing citizens’ needs. He maintains that the country’s democratic advancement depends on voters assessing candidates based on the clarity, credibility, and feasibility of their policy ideas.

The upcoming event is anticipated to draw journalists, civil society groups, youth representatives, and political analysts interested in discussions around leadership reform and issue-based politics in Nigeria.