Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Thursday formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under the banner of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
Addressing a massive crowd at the historic Mapo Hall during the “Unity Mega Rally Ibadan 2026,” Governor Makinde, dressed in APM-branded attire, stood at the podium and boldly stated:
“I, Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde, Excellency, announced my candidacy for the position of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The rally, which doubled as the official launch of a strategic alliance between a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) loyal to Makinde and the APM, also saw the unveiling of candidates for various elective positions on the APM platform. This includes the gubernatorial candidate for Oyo State, Bimbo Adekanmbi, as the coalition seeks to consolidate power in the state while eyeing national relevance.
Makinde’s declaration comes amid ongoing turmoil in the PDP and reflects a broader realignment in opposition politics. Analysts view the move as both a national ambition and a shrewd state-level strategy to ensure victory for his preferred candidates in the 2027 Oyo gubernatorial, legislative, and senatorial races.
