By Wellington Jopelo
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has officially entered the 2027 presidential race after declaring his ambition under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) during a major political rally in Ibadan.
The announcement has immediately changed the political atmosphere within the opposition, especially as fresh alliances and party realignments continue ahead of the next general election.
Makinde made the declaration at the historic Mapo Hall during a joint mega rally involving members of the Peoples Democratic Party faction loyal to him and leaders of the APM.
The Oyo governor said Nigeria needs a political reset, insisting that worsening economic hardship and public frustration have made it necessary for a new direction to emerge.
His declaration also confirmed growing rumours that he was preparing to move away from internal PDP battles by building a broader political structure ahead of 2027.
Before the rally, Makinde and APM National Chairman Yusuf Dantalle reportedly signed a political agreement designed to allow candidates loyal to the governor contest future elections using the APM platform.
The alliance is expected to cover governorship, National Assembly, and state assembly contests in Oyo State and possibly beyond.
The development followed weeks of political tension inside the PDP, where internal divisions and leadership disagreements have continued to weaken opposition unity nationwide.
Several politicians linked to Makinde’s camp are also reportedly preparing to contest under the APM banner as the governor strengthens his political network outside the PDP structure.
The rally attracted a large crowd of supporters, party loyalists, youth groups, and political stakeholders from different parts of the country.
Political observers believe Makinde’s decision could trigger fresh realignments within the opposition, especially among politicians searching for alternatives ahead of 2027.
His move is also likely to increase pressure on other opposition figures already positioning themselves for the presidential race.
As reactions continue across the country, many Nigerians are now watching closely to see whether Makinde’s new alliance can grow into a serious national political force before the next election cycle fully begins.