Stanley Osifo, who challenged President Bola Tinubu for the APC presidential ticket, has spoken publicly for the first time since the primary election results.
Osifo's silence in the weeks following the primary had drawn speculation about his political future and whether he would work to undermine Tinubu's candidacy or throw his weight behind the winner.
The former APC chieftain was considered Tinubu's strongest rival during the party's primary process, drawing support from delegates who wanted an alternative candidate. His campaign had pitched him as a unifying figure who could bridge regional and religious divides within the party.
Osifo did not immediately clarify what his next steps would be, but his decision to speak publicly signals he remains a significant player in APC politics. Whether he intends to support Tinubu's general election campaign, return to his base to consolidate power, or pursue other political ambitions remained unclear from his initial statement.
The APC primary was dominated by Tinubu, who secured the party's nomination with substantial support from party machinery and governors. However, Osifo's campaign had resonated with grassroots members who felt sidelined by the apparent predetermined outcome.
Political analysts say Osifo's next move could reshape internal party dynamics ahead of the general election. His endorsement would strengthen Tinubu's position, while his distance from the campaign could embolden opposition parties hoping to exploit APC divisions.
Osifo is expected to make a fuller statement outlining his plans within the coming weeks. Party insiders are watching closely to see whether he commits to the APC ticket or charts a different political path.
