Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under a coalition arrangement between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM).
The declaration, made on May 14 during a large political rally in Ibadan, also marked the unveiling of a broader opposition alliance aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the next general election.
Makinde’s announcement followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the PDP and APM at the party’s South-West secretariat in Ibadan, in what both parties described as a strategic partnership for electoral collaboration.
At the rally, attended by thousands of supporters, the governor said the alliance was designed to build a unified political front capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
He argued that Nigeria’s democratic system was under threat due to rising political interference, weakening opposition structures, and what he described as a drift toward one-party dominance.
Makinde warned that democracy could not thrive without strong opposition, stressing the need for political competition to preserve democratic values in the country.
He also linked the coalition effort to worsening economic hardship, including inflation, rising food prices, and growing insecurity, which he said had pushed many Nigerians into survival mode.
According to him, the alliance represents a broader movement that goes beyond political parties, involving citizens who are dissatisfied with the current state of governance.
He further described the initiative as a “Reset Nigeria Movement,” calling on opposition forces to unite gradually in order to present a credible alternative government.
Former Osun State Governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and other political figures present at the event also expressed support for the coalition, criticizing the current administration’s performance and calling for stronger opposition unity.
Observers, however, note that while the alliance marks a significant political development, sustaining such coalitions at the national level may prove challenging due to internal political interests and regional dynamics.
