By Ghazali Ibrahim
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) formalised a political alliance ahead of the next general elections.
Makinde made the declaration on Thursday during a joint rally organised by the PDP and APM in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The event also featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between both parties, signalling a fresh coalition move aimed at strengthening opposition politics ahead of 2027.
The governor, alongside APM National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, witnessed the signing ceremony. Seyi Bamidele signed on behalf of the PDP, while Oladele Oyadeji represented the APM.
The rally attracted party supporters, political stakeholders and allies from within and outside Oyo State.
Among dignitaries present were Oyo State Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin; former Osun State Governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola; Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo; Chief Saka Balogun; Open Salawu; and Abass Adigun.
Speaking during the event, former PDP National Vice Chairman, Eddy Olafeso, described the alliance as a major political movement aimed at repositioning Nigeria and rebuilding confidence in democratic governance.
According to him, the coalition was beyond individual ambition and focused on securing a better future for Nigerians.
“This movement goes beyond individuals. It is not about personal ambition or unhealthy political competition. It is about this generation, the next generation and generations yet unborn,” Olafeso stated.
He added that the country’s economic and political challenges had made opposition collaboration necessary.
Makinde’s declaration is expected to intensify political discussions within the PDP as consultations and alignments ahead of the party’s presidential primary begin to gather momentum.
Political analysts believe the Oyo governor’s entry into the race could significantly shape early calculations within the opposition camp ahead of the 2027 election.
