The Lagos State chapter of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) has declared Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde as its preferred choice for the opposition coalition’s presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party said its support for Makinde was based on his leadership experience, governance achievements and ability to unite different political interests, rather than political calculations or personal preference.
In a statement issued in Lagos on Monday, APM Lagos Publicity Secretary, Ayodele Kazeem, described Makinde as a leader with the competence, credibility and national appeal needed to provide Nigerians with a strong alternative in the next presidential election.
Kazeem said the party believes the Oyo governor has demonstrated effective leadership through his administration’s focus on infrastructure development, healthcare, education, agriculture, security and economic growth.
He noted that Makinde’s approach to governance had shown that public resources could be managed responsibly while delivering visible projects and improving the state’s economy.
“APM Lagos firmly believes that if the opposition is serious about offering Nigerians a credible alternative in 2027, Governor Seyi Makinde stands out as the most qualified, competent and unifying candidate to lead the coalition,” he said.
According to him, Makinde’s leadership style reflects transparency, prudent management and result-oriented governance, adding that his achievements in Oyo State have strengthened his national profile.
Kazeem argued that Nigeria requires a president who understands practical governance and has proven experience in managing public affairs.
He said Makinde had shown that government could achieve development through proper planning rather than excessive publicity.
Beyond his performance in Oyo State, the APM spokesperson said the governor possesses qualities that could help bridge political and regional differences.
He described Makinde as a consensus builder who enjoys respect across party lines and has maintained relationships with political leaders from different backgrounds.
Kazeem added that the governor’s calm personality, willingness to listen and ability to build agreements align with what Nigeria needs after years of political divisions.
He said the opposition coalition must prioritise a candidate capable of attracting nationwide support rather than one whose popularity is limited to a particular region.
According to him, Makinde represents a new generation of leadership, combining private-sector experience with public administration skills.
The APM Lagos spokesperson also announced the party’s commitment to supporting the opposition coalition through grassroots mobilisation efforts in Lagos State.
He said the party was developing strategies aimed at strengthening polling unit structures, expanding volunteer networks, engaging young voters, women and professionals, as well as increasing voter registration and Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection.
Kazeem added that the party would use digital platforms, train election agents and work with community groups, market associations, transport unions and religious organisations to build support.
He said the campaign strategy would focus on issue-based politics and restoring confidence among Nigerians rather than promoting personalities.
The party also disclosed that its Lagos governorship candidate, Prince Laja Adeoye, was coordinating efforts to create a grassroots framework capable of delivering millions of votes for the opposition coalition across Lagos’ local government areas and council development areas.
(NAN)