Oyo State governor and Allied Peoples Movement, APM, presidential candidate, Engr Seyi Makinde, has revealed that he was almost discouraged from visiting the South-East region to hold a town hall meeting. The visit was part of his campaign efforts for the 2027 presidential election. Makinde made this disclosure in Enugu, where he addressed stakeholders from the region. He noted that the South-East is considered the stronghold of Mr Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC.
Despite the discouragement, Makinde expressed his enormous regard for the people of the South-East region. He emphasized the importance of not allowing divisions across religious or ethnic lines to hinder progress. The APM candidate stated that his message to the people of the region was to reject all forms of divisions. Makinde's town hall meeting in the South-East was part of his campaign strategy to engage with stakeholders across different regions of Nigeria.
Makinde also spoke about the delay in releasing his manifesto, citing the need to gauge the feelings and needs of the Nigerian masses. He explained that his campaign team had been touring the country, listening to the concerns of the people, and incorporating their needs into the party's agenda. The APM candidate mentioned that the manifesto would be launched on November 4, 2026, after a thorough review of the input from various stakeholders.
The APM presidential candidate referenced the recent event involving Nyesom Wike's Rainbow Coalition in Rivers State, which he saw as a sign of the party's growth. Makinde noted that a good friend of his had included the APM in the Rainbow Coalition, indicating that the party was gaining recognition. He expressed confidence in the party's chances in the upcoming election.
Makinde also addressed the issue of attempts by other parties to undermine the APM. He mentioned that despite efforts to pull down their posters and disturb their campaign, the party was winning hearts. The APM candidate urged his supporters to remain focused and ensure they have their voter's card and thumb, which would be used to cast their votes.
The Oyo State governor also touched on the issue of Nigeria's economy, citing claims that the country has a lot of money in its external reserves. He questioned the need for the government to borrow money despite having a significant amount in reserves. Makinde's comments were part of his campaign rhetoric, aimed at highlighting the need for effective economic management.
Makinde's visit to the South-East region and his town hall meeting were seen as significant events in the run-up to the 2027 presidential election. The APM candidate's message of unity and his focus on the needs of the Nigerian people resonated with stakeholders in the region. As the election approaches, Makinde's campaign efforts are expected to intensify, with the launch of his manifesto and further engagements with voters across the country.
Key points
- APM presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, was almost discouraged from visiting the South-East region for a town hall meeting due to its strong ties with Peter Obi.
