Makinde Urges Nigerians to Vote Conscience Over Cash in 2027 Elections

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who is also the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential candidate, has called on Nigerians to prioritize their conscience over financial inducements during the 2027 general elections. Speaking at the APM's presidential campaign launch in Bauchi, Makinde urged supporters to accept money offered by politicians but not allow it to influence their votes. He emphasized that the party's proposed Reset Agenda aims to address pressing issues such as hunger, insecurity, and inadequate governance.

Makinde identified hunger as the country's most pressing problem, which he believes can be addressed through his Reset Agenda. He criticized existing security arrangements and the exclusion of citizens from decision-making processes. The governor argued that these issues are interconnected and require a comprehensive approach rather than separate solutions. He appealed to voters dissatisfied with the current government's conduct to support his candidacy, promising greater openness, honesty, and participation in public office.

The APM National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, outlined the party's plans to increase women's involvement in political leadership. He expressed concern about the limited representation of women in the National Assembly and other institutions. Dantalle announced the creation of a women's directorate and engagement with the National Assembly Joint Committee to promote special legislative seats for women. He commended Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu for supporting the proposal but noted that it still requires legislative backing.

The APM's vice-presidential candidate, Lawal Daura, emphasized the importance of accountability in public office. He attributed the weakening of democratic practice to deceit and hypocrisy. Daura promised that the Reset Agenda would ensure honesty and a commitment to a national development program among those serving in an APM administration. He also assured Nigerians of different backgrounds of opportunities to participate in government.

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, the APM's national leader, endorsed Makinde's candidacy, citing his experience in managing diversity and leading the country. Mohammed explained that he and Makinde left the Peoples Democratic Party due to perceived injustice and found a platform in the APM to pursue their objectives. He supported Makinde's proposal for a government of national unity, emphasizing the need to address political exclusion, tribalism, and religious intolerance.

Governor Mohammed warned against concentrating appointments in any ethnic group and urged Makinde to combine merit with the federal character principle. He stressed that selecting qualified officials and ensuring equitable representation should guide recruitment into public office. Mohammed also raised concerns about Bauchi's financial difficulties, stating that the state needs greater support to meet its obligations, including workers' salaries.

The APM's campaign launch in Bauchi marks a significant step in the party's efforts to promote its Reset Agenda and attract voters. With Makinde at the helm, the party aims to challenge existing power structures and offer a new vision for Nigeria's development. As the 2027 general elections approach, Nigerians will be watching the APM's progress and the impact of Makinde's message on the electorate.

Key points

• Makinde urges Nigerians to prioritize their conscience over financial inducements during the 2027 general elections.
• The APM's Reset Agenda aims to address pressing issues such as hunger, insecurity, and inadequate governance.
• The party plans to increase women's involvement in political leadership through a women's directorate and special legislative seats.