The Allied People’s Movement (APM) presidential candidate ‘Seyi Makinde has declared the imperative of the devolution of powers to Nigerian states to address worsening insecurity and structural economic challenges across the country.
Speaking on Tuesday at the party’s Northwest Consultative Meeting in Daura, Katsina State, Makinde outlined his comprehensive Reset Nigeria agenda, promising a complete overhaul of the nation’s economic, educational, and security frameworks to ensure the Federal Government serves all citizens effectively.
Devolution of Powers Key to Tackling Insecurity
Addressing APM candidates, party leadership, and regional stakeholders, Makinde emphasised that state governments require greater constitutional autonomy to deal with localized crises. He highlighted the urgent need to move key responsibilities—such as mining oversight and community policing—away from the exclusive federal list.
Reflecting on recent tragic events, including the loss of 37 young lives in Niger State, the APM presidential candidate pointed out the flaws in the current centralized approach:
“A few days ago, we all woke up to learn about the 37 young souls that were lost in Niger State. Is it their fault that they were born in Nigeria? Is it their fault that they were looking at means to eke out a living? The answer is no. People may not want to take responsibility, but from what has been done, the action that has been taken so far, we can see that we are focusing on the supply side of things.”
He urged a immediate pivot toward the demand side of governance, arguing that local control breeds local stability:
“We need to focus on the demand side. Legitimise the operation. Right now, you have in our constitution, on the exclusive list, the issue of mining. Devolve that responsibility to the states and let there be oversight only at the federal level. They will do better. We want to reset our sociopolitical system, which is what I have just mentioned. What level of government should take decisions on issues that are affecting our people?”
Reset Nigeria Agenda: Building a 24/7 Economy and Modernising Education
Beyond security reform, Makinde detailed plans to transition Nigeria from a resource-dependent economy to an intensive production powerhouse. He warned that the nation cannot remain competitive on the global stage if business activity grinds to a halt every evening.
“First, we want to reset our economy. People will argue that Nigeria is rich in natural resources. But in addition to natural resources, we need entrepreneurship, we must also have skills and knowledge and we must also have intensive production. Our economy must work 24/7. Otherwise, if our economy shuts down at 7 or 8 o’clock in the evening, we cannot compete with economies that are running 24/7.”
Education reform forms another vital pillar of the candidate’s platform. Makinde underscored the necessity of accurate data collection to get out-of-school children back into classrooms and properly equip the workforce for the future.
Setting the Record Straight on Oyo State Infrastructure Funding
During the town hall, the APM presidential candidate directly addressed recent statements made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, regarding federal financial interventions. Wike had claimed that the Federal Government provided Oyo State with a N50 billion intervention fund to upgrade the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport.
Makinde firmly refuted the assertion, clarifying that the airport project has been funded and executed entirely by the Oyo State Government without federal assistance.
Respecting the Constitution and Enforcing Democratic Accountability
Turning his attention to constitutional governance, Makinde criticized the current administration’s handling of presidential leaves. He promised full adherence to Section 145 of the Nigerian Constitution, pledging to formally transmit executive power to his Vice-President whenever he goes on official leave or vacation.
“Finally, I promise you that this campaign will be issue-based. And that is why it is concerning to us, and to me personally, that our president is on working leave. I have looked at the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and of course for me as a state governor, I also operate under that constitution. Anytime I have to travel out, not working, or on vacation, more than 21 days, I transmit power to the deputy governor. Why is this not happening at the national level?
“Section 145 of our constitution is clear on this matter. The president may be unable, either through sickness, medical trip, incapacitation, to function. We are all human; anything can happen to anybody at any time. If that happens, he should transmit power to the vice-president. I promise you that as your president, I will follow the constitution to the letter. If I am not going to be available, if I am on vacation, I will transmit power to the vice-president. Record this and hold me accountable.”
Rallies Voters Against APC Rule Ahead of Northwest Tour
Makinde concluded the town hall by calling on all eligible citizens to pick up their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and hold the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) accountable at the ballot box.
“Please get your PVC and show APC that Nigeria is bigger than individuals — it is bigger than even systems that have held us down. So, together, let us embark on the ‘Reset Agenda’ so that we have a Nigeria that will work for everybody, irrespective of tribe, religion, or which corner of Nigeria you decide to stay in.
“So, on this note, expect me back. This is a town hall for the Northwest. I am still coming back here in Katsina, to Kaduna, to Kano, to Kebbi, to Zamfara, and to Jigawa to campaign on a state-by-state basis.”
The North-West Consultative Meeting was attended by key party figures, including APM Vice-Presidential Candidate Alhaji Lawal Daura, APM National Chairman Yusuff Mamman Dantale, members of the National Working Committee, and candidates representing all six states across the geopolitical zone.
