Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has announced his candidacy for the Nigerian presidency in the 2027 elections, positioning himself as a key opposition figure. The announcement, made on May 14, 2026, under the alliance of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), has drawn attention to his role in Nigeria's evolving political landscape.
Makinde's Presidential Ambition
According to reports, Makinde's appeal is rooted in governance perception, technocratic branding, and elite calculations, rather than large emotional movements or entrenched establishment networks. His relatively calm political image, business background, and governance record in Oyo state have helped him build support among professionals, moderate reformists, and business communities seeking a less confrontational alternative.
Some younger political stakeholders view him as representing a generational shift without the unpredictability of outsider populism. However, his national-level support remains limited compared to rivals like President Bola Tinubu, former Anambra Governor Peter Obi, or former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Forces Behind Makinde
1) Loyalists
On June 2, 2026, six members of the House of Representatives from Oyo state defected from the PDP to the APM, believed to be loyalists of Governor Makinde. The defections were announced by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas during plenary. The lawmakers include Adebayo Adepoju, Adedeji Olajide, Makanjuola Ojo, Oyeshina Oyedeji, Folajimi Oyekunle, and Abass Adigun.
2) Support Groups
In mid-May, the Seyi Makinde Disciples (SMD) group pledged to mobilize over 50 million votes nationwide for Makinde's presidential ambition. Laja Adeoye, a key member, stated: "His emergence represents hope, competence, and a fresh direction for Nigeria. We are determined to mobilize no fewer than 50 million votes for him nationwide." The group described the bid as the beginning of the Reset Nigeria Movement.
3) Party Members from Oyo and Osun
The Osun state chapter of the APM endorsed Makinde as its preferred presidential candidate for 2027, citing his leadership qualities, administrative experience, and national appeal. Key APM members in Osun and Oyo argued that his performance has distinguished him as one of the country's notable sub-national leaders, earning support beyond partisan lines.
Strategic Implications
Makinde's candidacy raises a strategic dilemma for the opposition: whether multiple southern contenders could strengthen President Tinubu by splitting anti-APC votes. This concern continues to shape opposition calculations ahead of the 2027 election.
