Seyi Makinde on Thursday announced plans to run in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election on the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), potentially setting the stage for a showdown with President Bola Tinubu.
Makinde made the declaration during a large political gathering at Mapo Hill in Ibadan, Oyo State, where supporters of both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and APM gathered.
Addressing supporters at the event, the governor said Nigeria needs “a new direction driven by competence, inclusion, and grassroots development,” while calling for broader political cooperation beyond traditional party divisions.
The announcement immediately generated reactions across political circles, as many asked if the governor has what it takes to face president Tinubu in the ring.
Supporters at the rally waved party banners and raised cassava stems into the air as symbolic representations of grassroots mobilisation and economic resilience, while chants of support filled the venue after the declaration.
The development is expected to intensify political realignments ahead of 2027, especially in the South-West, where both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition blocs are already positioning for future contests.
Security personnel maintained a strong presence around the rally venue as celebrations continue.