The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has expressed confidence that its presidential candidate, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, will defeat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, made the assertion during an interview with Punch, stating that Makinde possesses the leadership qualities, experience and national appeal needed to emerge victorious at the polls.
According to Yusuf, the APM has intensified its grassroots mobilisation nationwide and is witnessing a steady increase in membership following the defection of several prominent political figures to the party.
He said Makinde has the capacity, competence and commitment to tackle Nigeria’s security challenges, revive the economy and provide effective governance.
Yusuf further described the Oyo State governor as a prudent manager of public resources whose record of inclusive leadership and responsible governance would shape an APM-led administration. He added that Makinde’s combination of experience, youthful energy and ability to unite Nigerians across ethnic, religious and political divides gives the party confidence ahead of the 2027 election.
The party spokesman also argued that the influx of influential politicians into the APM reflects growing public trust in the party’s platform.
He maintained that many Nigerians are dissatisfied with the country’s economic conditions, insecurity, unemployment and declining opportunities, insisting that the APM offers a credible alternative capable of addressing those challenges.
Yusuf praised Makinde as one of Nigeria’s top-performing governors, saying his achievements in Oyo State have earned him national recognition and strengthened the party’s belief in his ability to lead the country.
However, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed the APM’s claims, insisting that President Tinubu remains well-positioned to secure re-election in 2027.
Speaking to the publication, APC Director of Publicity Bala Ibrahim said opposition parties were free to present alternative candidates but argued that Makinde does not pose a major electoral challenge to the President.
He maintained that although Tinubu’s economic reforms initially attracted criticism, they are beginning to produce positive results that Nigerians will appreciate before the next general election.
Ibrahim also stressed that while the APC welcomes calls for accountability from opposition parties, serving governors seeking higher office, including Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, should equally be prepared to account for their stewardship when they leave office.
He further argued that Makinde’s political achievements cannot be compared to Tinubu’s extensive national political influence and electoral track record.