Governor Seyi Makinde

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State officially entered the 2027 presidential race on Thursday, calling for a comprehensive "reset" of the Nigerian nation. The declaration took place during a high-profile mega-rally in Ibadan, where Makinde also announced a strategic political alliance between the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM).

Addressing a crowd of supporters, Makinde emphasized the urgent need for a shift in the country's political trajectory, citing the declining economic fortunes of the citizenry. He urged Nigerians to transition from passive spectators to active participants in the democratic process.

A Call for Unity and Systemic Change

The Governor challenged the current state of Nigeria's democracy, questioning the efficacy of the existing multi-party system. He argued that the true opposition to the status quo is not found in fragmented political factions, but in the "everyday Nigerian."

"Without a multi-party system, there is no democracy," Makinde stated. "We have been pushed to the wall. This is the time for all of us to ensure Nigeria works for us... it is time to engage as citizens and not spectators."

The PDP-APM Grand Alliance

A central theme of the declaration was the formation of a "grand alliance" between the PDP and the APM. Makinde described this partnership as a necessary step to consolidate the opposition and provide a unified front against the ruling party.

Key highlights of the alliance include:

Unified Slate: The coalition plans to field joint candidates for all elective positions, ranging from the Presidency to State Houses of Assembly.

Strategic Hub: Makinde highlighted Ibadan’s historical reputation as a "city of warriors" to underscore the significance of launching the movement from the Oyo State capital.

Opposition Consolidation: The Governor called on other opposition parties to set aside differences and unite to achieve the "reset" he believes the nation requires.

Vision for 2027

By formally declaring his candidacy, Makinde positions himself as a focal point for the opposition's efforts to reclaim the presidency. His platform appears centered on systemic reform, economic recovery, and the restoration of a robust multi-party democracy.

"The time to reset Nigeria is now," Makinde concluded. "And so, I declare my candidacy for the office of the President of Nigeria."