As the 2027 election cycle quietly gathers momentum, a familiar pattern in Nigerian politics is already resurfacing. Sitting governors who are serving out their second term are subtly or openly pointing to who they want to succeed them. In the Nigerian political lexicon, these persons are called “Anointed Candidates”.
But what exactly does it mean to be an “anointed” governorship candidate, and how much weight does such endorsement really carry?
An anointed governorship candidate in simple terms, is a preferred successor handpicked or publicly endorsed by a sitting governor or powerful political figure. It is not an official title recognized by law or the constitution.
Rather, it is a political signal, strong or symbolic, meant to guide party members, influence delegates, and shape the direction of party primaries.
In Nigeria’s political history, this practice did not start today. It evolved gradually during the Fourth Republic, especially under dominant parties like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the early 2000s and later within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governors, being the most powerful figures at the state level, often control party structures, finances, and grassroots mobilization. Over time, that influence began to translate into succession planning—what many Nigerians now describe as “imposition” or “anointing.”
Fast forward to 2026, and the script is playing out again. In Nasarawa and Ogun states, this conversation has moved from whispers to public declarations.
Wadada in Nasarawa
In Nasarawa State, Governor Abdullahi Sule has openly endorsed Senator Ahmed Wadada as his preferred successor for 2027. Sule described Wadada as the candidate who best reflects his administration’s philosophy, after what he called a “careful, multi-dimensional assessment.”
Wadada is not a political lightweight. He is a former member of the House of Representatives and serving senator representing Nasarawa West, he has built a reputation within the state’s political structure.
His journey, however, has not been without controversy—he once left the APC over disputes in party primaries before re-emerging in the mainstream political space.
Yet, Sule’s endorsement has not gone unchallenged. Former Inspector-General of Police, Abubakar Adamu, has already declared his intention to contest, insisting that endorsement does not equal election.
Adeola in Ogun
In Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun is also said to have signaled support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi.
Adeola, a seasoned lawmaker, has served multiple terms in the National Assembly and is widely known for his grassroots political style and strong influence in Ogun politics.
How Anointing Works
So how does this “anointing” actually work? It usually begins with consultations behind closed doors—meetings with party stakeholders, loyalists, and sometimes national leaders.
Once a preferred candidate is chosen, the governor may publicly endorse the person, subtly discourage other aspirants, and mobilize party machinery in their favour. In some cases, this leads to “consensus candidacy,” where other aspirants step down. But when that fails, primaries become battlegrounds.
Legally speaking, anointing has no binding power. Nigeria’s electoral framework—guided by the Electoral Act and party constitutions—recognizes only duly conducted primaries and general elections hence, critics argue that “anointing” is undemocratic, while defenders see it as strategic leadership and party cohesion.
Interestingly, many governors who anoint successors were themselves products of similar political backing. Governor Sule, for instance, rose through the APC structure and benefited from strong party support during his emergence and eventual victory in 2019.
While endorsement can provide a major advantage such as access to structure, funding, and visibility, it does not eliminate competition. Party primaries can still be fiercely contested, and general elections ultimately depend on voters.
For candidates like Wadada and Adeola, their chances will depend on more than just endorsements. Their track records, public perception, party unity, and the mood of the electorate will all play critical roles.
As 2027 approaches, one thing is clear: the era of anointed candidates is far from over in Nigerian politics. But whether these political blessings translate into electoral victories remains a question only party delegates—and ultimately voters—can answer.