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| Photo credit — Yusuf Buhari & Iyabo Obasanjo |
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, a notable pattern has emerged: several children of former presidents, governors, a former vice president, and other prominent political figures are among those seeking seats in the National Assembly.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for 16 January 2027. Political parties have conducted primaries and submitted candidate lists, and reviews of available reports and INEC-related data highlight a number of political family members contesting Senate or House of Representatives seats. Some are incumbents seeking re-election; others are first-time or returning contenders.
This trend reflects a longer-standing feature of Nigerian politics in which family name recognition, established networks, and political structures often play a role in candidacy. Below is a selection of individuals frequently mentioned in recent coverage, drawn from public reports and candidate information. Inclusion here is based on available reporting and does not imply endorsement or predicted outcomes—voters will decide in the primaries and general election.
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Senate Contenders
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central)
The incumbent senator for Kogi Central and daughter of the late former House of Representatives member Jimoh Abdul Akpoti is seeking another term on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform. She has received her party’s certificate of return and is actively campaigning.
Iyabo Obasanjo (Ogun Central)
Daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, she previously served as senator for Ogun Central (2007–2011). After a period away from elective office and a brief association with another party, she has secured the PDP ticket for the same senatorial seat in 2027.
House of Representatives Contenders
Yusuf Buhari (Daura/Sandamu/Mai’adua, Katsina)
Son of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, he has emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for this federal constituency after party processes.
Bello El-Rufai (Kaduna North)
Son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, he currently represents the constituency in the House and is participating in the 2027 contests.
Chinedum Orji (Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South, Abia)
Son of former Abia State Governor Theodore Orji, he is contesting this House seat.
Adamu Atiku (Adamawa)
Son of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, he has been linked in reports to National Assembly races in Adamawa State, including possible senatorial interest.
Blessing Onuh (Otukpo/Ohimini, Benue)
Daughter of former Senate President David Mark, she is the incumbent representative and is seeking another term.
Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu (Ethiope East/Ethiope West, Delta)
Daughter of former Delta State Governor James Ibori, she currently holds the seat and is involved in the 2027 race.
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Gabriella Omosede Igbinedion (Ovia North-East/Ovia South-West, Edo)
Daughter of businessman and politician Gabriel Igbinedion, she has been associated with the House contest for this constituency.
Olumide Osoba (Abeokuta North/Odeda/Obafemi-Owode, Ogun)
Son of former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba, he is the incumbent representative and is seeking to continue in the National Assembly.
Adegboyega Adefarati (Akoko South-East/Akoko South-West, Ondo)
Son of the late former Ondo State Governor Adebayo Adefarati, he currently represents the constituency and is seeking re-election.
Olamiju Alao-Akala (Orire/Ogbomoso North/Ogbomoso South, Oyo)
Son of the late former Oyo State Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, he has been linked to the contest for this federal constituency.
Broader Context
The presence of these candidates illustrates how political families continue to feature in Nigerian electoral contests. Name recognition can provide advantages in mobilisation and funding, yet success still depends on party primaries, campaign effectiveness, local dynamics, and voter choices.
Similar patterns have appeared in previous election cycles. As the 2027 polls approach, attention will focus on whether these candidacies translate into seats and what they mean for broader representation and political competition.
Readers should consult official INEC candidate lists and party announcements for the most up-to-date information, as statuses can evolve.
Samuel O. Sulaimon is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Naijapiz. He covers news, politics, current affairs, education, and technology.
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