- APM expressed confidence that Makinde can defeat Tinubu in 2027
- The party cited Makinde’s leadership record and growing support
- APC dismissed the claim, insisting Tinubu remains the favourite
The Allied People’s Movement (APM) has expressed confidence that its presidential candidate and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, will unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the party’s assertion has, however, been dismissed by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which described the prediction as unrealistic.
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The exchange comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections following Makinde’s emergence as the APM’s presidential flag bearer after entering a political alliance with the party.
Speaking with Sunday PUNCH, APM National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, said the party believes Makinde has the experience, competence and national appeal needed to lead Nigeria.
Yusuf stated that the APM had stepped up grassroots mobilisation nationwide and was witnessing an increase in membership following the defection of notable political figures.
He said Makinde’s leadership style, prudent management of public resources and record of governance in Oyo State positioned him as a credible alternative capable of addressing Nigeria’s security and economic challenges.
According to him, the governor’s ability to unite Nigerians across political, ethnic and religious divides would strengthen the party’s chances in the next presidential election.
The party spokesman also argued that growing public dissatisfaction over the rising cost of living, insecurity, unemployment and economic hardship had created an opportunity for the APM to present a different vision for the country.
Yusuf described Makinde as one of Nigeria’s outstanding governors, saying his achievements in Oyo State had earned him national recognition and reinforced the party’s confidence in his presidential ambition.
Reacting to the claim, APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, dismissed suggestions that Makinde could pose a serious challenge to President Tinubu in 2027.
He said opposition parties were free to present candidates but insisted that the President remained well-positioned to secure another term in office.
Ibrahim argued that the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms were beginning to produce positive results that Nigerians would appreciate before the next election.
He also maintained that while the APC welcomed calls for accountability, governors seeking higher office should equally be prepared to account for their own records in office.
According to him, Makinde’s political influence could not be compared with Tinubu’s nationwide electoral strength.
He expressed confidence that Nigerians would renew Tinubu’s mandate in 2027, citing what he described as the administration’s bold economic reforms.
Makinde officially aligned with the APM in May after reaching a political agreement with the party in Ibadan. He was later confirmed as the party’s presidential candidate, positioning the APM among the opposition parties preparing to challenge the APC in the 2027 presidential election.
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