Ibadan, Oyo State — Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Thursday formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, signalling a major political development as he unveiled a coalition effort between the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Makinde made the announcement at a large political rally held at Mapo Hall in Ibadan, where thousands of party psupporters and stakeholders gathered from across the South-West region.
Addressing the crowd, the governor said his decision to enter the presidential race was driven by what he described as the urgent need to “reposition Nigeria” and restore confidence in democratic governance.
He emphasized that the alliance between the APM and PDP reflects a broader strategy to consolidate opposition strength ahead of the 2027 elections.
Makinde raised concerns over Nigeria’s current economic and security challenges, noting that the situation had worsened under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He argued that a new leadership direction was necessary to address growing hardship and instability across the country.
The governor also warned against the erosion of Nigeria’s multi-party system, stressing that democratic plurality must be protected. According to him, attempts to concentrate political power within a single dominant structure could undermine accountability and inclusiveness.
“Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity and democratic evolution. We must preserve a system that allows multiple voices and perspectives to thrive,” he said.
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The rally attracted supporters from Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Ekiti and Lagos states, many of whom openly endorsed Makinde’s presidential ambition and the emerging coalition as a viable alternative in the 2027 political landscape.
Political observers say the declaration marks an early but significant move in what is expected to be a highly competitive presidential race, with coalition-building likely to play a decisive role.
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