Oyo State Governor and presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), Seyi Makinde, has stated that the 2027 presidential election will be a contest between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and ordinary Nigerians, rather than between political parties. This assertion was made during a Northwest town hall meeting organized by his campaign team in Katsina to present the party’s “Reset Nigeria” agenda. Makinde emphasized that the election will not be between APC and APM, but rather between the APC and the Nigerian people.
The “Reset Nigeria” initiative focuses on key areas such as the economy, education, insecurity, and institutional reforms. The goal is to build a country that works for all citizens, regardless of their tribe, religion, or region. Makinde urged citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate actively in the electoral process. He believes that with the support of Nigerians, the APM can offer a viable alternative to the current administration.
During the event, Makinde refuted claims made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu granted Oyo State N50 billion to upgrade the Ibadan Airport. Wike had claimed that the Federal Government provided the funds to support the upgrade of the Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan to international standards. Makinde described the assertion as false, clarifying that the project is funded 100 percent by the Oyo State Government.
Makinde expressed deep concern over the country’s worsening security situation, citing the recent killing of 37 young Nigerians in Niger State. He also criticized President Tinubu for failing to formally transmit executive power to Vice President Kashim Shettima during extended foreign trips, citing Section 145 of the Nigerian Constitution. Makinde emphasized that he consistently hands over power to his deputy whenever he travels abroad for more than 21 days, promising to uphold this constitutional requirement if elected.
The APM presidential candidate’s vice-presidential candidate, Lawal Musa Daura, identified insecurity and poverty as the twin challenges crippling the Northwest region. Daura emphasized that the Makinde-led APM ticket offers Nigerians a viable alternative, committing to systematic national restoration. He called on citizens to exercise their civic duty within lawful bounds and support the APM campaign in restoring peace and economic stability across the nation.
The town hall meeting was part of the APM’s efforts to engage with citizens and present its vision for Nigeria’s future. Makinde and his team have been touring the country, interacting with Nigerians, and listening to their concerns. The “Reset Nigeria” agenda is a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing the country’s multifaceted challenges. The APM hopes to provide a new direction for Nigeria, one that prioritizes the welfare and well-being of its citizens.
As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigerians will be watching the developments within the political landscape closely. The APM, under Makinde’s leadership, is positioning itself as a credible alternative to the APC and other parties. With its focus on economic development, security, and institutional reforms, the APM aims to offer a fresh perspective on how to move Nigeria forward.
Key points
- The 2027 presidential election will be a contest between the APC and ordinary Nigerians.
- The "Reset Nigeria" initiative focuses on the economy, education, insecurity, and institutional reforms.
- Makinde refuted claims of N50 billion funding from the Federal Government for the Ibadan Airport upgrade.
