Senator Sharafadeen Alli, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Oyo State governorship candidate, has called on the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) to demonstrate its nationwide political structure and strength. This is before presenting Governor Seyi Makinde as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election. Alli's Senator Sharafadeen Alli Campaign Organisation (SSACO) criticised the APM's call for President Bola Tinubu to step aside for Makinde.
The SSACO, through its Director of Media and Publicity, Bisi Oladele, stated that a presidential bid requires nationwide organisation and electoral structures across the country. The organisation asked the APM to disclose the extent of its structures across the federation and demonstrate its capacity to contest effectively across the states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The statement also questioned Makinde's record on local government administration in Oyo State, alleging that his administration had weakened the 33 local governments in the state. According to the SSACO, Makinde's administration is averse to the third tier of government in Nigeria. This is evident in his seven-year anti-local government administration in Oyo State.
The SSACO challenged the APM to demonstrate its seriousness by having candidates across various elective positions in at least one-third of the country. It also challenged Makinde to demonstrate political strength in Oyo State before seeking to lead a nationwide presidential campaign. The organisation stated that a man seeking to conquer Nigeria must first demonstrate compelling political strength on his own turf.
The 2027 presidential election will ultimately be determined by voters. The SSACO highlighted the benefits of President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, including the student loan scheme, establishment of federal universities, and road construction and reconstruction projects. The organisation seems to be promoting the agenda as a viable alternative to Makinde's presidential bid.
The APM's consideration of Makinde as its presidential candidate has generated controversy. Alli's challenge is an indication of the scrutiny that the APM and Makinde will face as they consider his presidential bid. The APC and other political parties will likely be watching the developments closely.
The 2027 presidential election is expected to be a major contest. The SSACO's statement is an indication of the intense politicking that will precede the election. Key issues, such as the candidates' political structures and records, will likely be critical in shaping the voters' decisions.
Key points
- APC Oyo State governorship candidate Senator Sharafadeen Alli challenges APM to demonstrate nationwide political structure before presenting Governor Seyi Makinde as its presidential candidate.
