Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has formally declared his 2027 presidential ambition, unveiling a grand PDP-APM alliance aimed at contesting every elective seat in the upcoming general elections.
Speaking to a massive crowd at the historic Mapo Hall on Thursday, Makinde announced the birth of the Reset Nigeria Movement. He called on citizens distressed by current economic policies to unite under this new banner to provide the country with a necessary “reset.”
The Governor confirmed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied People’s Movement (APM) will field joint candidates for all positions, ranging from State Assemblies to the Presidency.
Launch of the Reset Nigeria Movement
The Governor stated that the coalition is a response to the “harsh economic policies and lack of direction” seen at the federal level. Makinde argued that despite the perceived oppression of opposition parties, the public would not allow the country to slide into a one-party system.
Earlier in the day, Makinde led PDP leaders to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the APM National Working Committee, headed by National Chairman Alhaji Yusuff Mamman Dantalle. Makinde noted that the ruling party’s belief that the opposition could not unite has failed, asserting that the “average Nigerian” has now become the true opposition.
Formal Declaration of 2027 Presidential Ambition
During the mega rally, Makinde explicitly confirmed his intent to seek the nation’s highest office. He told the gathered supporters:
“Today, history is being made. I pronounce today the birth of the Reset Nigeria Movement. The time to reset Nigeria is now. And so, today, in Oyo State, in Ibadan, which is the city of warriors, the first grand Alliance is formed — the alliance of the PDP and APM. This handshake will allow us field candidates at all levels. We will field candidates from top to bottom. We will field candidates from presidency to State Assembly and everything in between.”
He continued: “Therefore, today, I, Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde, announce my candidacy for the position of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We will witness the rebirth of a new nation from May 29th, 2027.”
Strategy for the Nigerian General Elections 2027
Makinde urged the electorate to overcome political apathy, describing it as a dangerous trend. He insisted that Nigerians must confront their fears and participate actively in the democratic process rather than remaining spectators.
“In the past few years, we have found ourselves at a point in our political history as a nation where the very foundation of democracy is being shaken. We have witnessed the continuous meddling in the affairs of opposition parties in our dear country with the aim of taking Nigeria to a one-party system. Without a multi-party system, there is no democracy. So where is our multi-party?”
The Governor criticised the current state of the nation, noting that the economic and security situations have forced many into “survivor mode.” He questioned the trajectory of the country, asking: “Is this the way we are to continue as a nation?”
Strengthening the PDP-APM Alliance
The alliance was solidified at the PDP South-West Secretariat before the rally. Dr Eddy Olafeso, a PDP Board of Trustees member, credited Makinde with bringing “new energy” to the party.
Former Osun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and PDP National Vice Chairman (South-East), Chief Ali Odefa, both remarked that the coalition was born from the failure of the current administration to meet its promises. APM Chairman Dantalle added that both parties are now working in tandem to ensure Nigeria reclaims its status within Africa.
The event was attended by high-ranking officials including Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin, and various national and state party chairmen, marking a significant realignment ahead of the Nigerian General Elections 2027.
