Fresh uncertainty has emerged within the opposition Allied Peoples Movement (APM) over its 2027 presidential ticket following the adoption of Bauchi-born politician and development economist, Dr. Ibrahim Waziri, by a coalition of party stakeholders as their preferred candidate. The development has complicated speculation surrounding a possible presidential bid by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on the platform of the party, setting the stage for what could become a fierce contest for the APM’s presidential nomination.
Stakeholders Endorse Waziri
At a stakeholders’ meeting attended by party leaders and supporters from more than 30 states, Waziri was unanimously endorsed as the group’s preferred candidate for the 2027 presidential election. The stakeholders claimed the endorsement enjoys the backing of influential party figures across the 19 Northern states, positioning the Bauchi politician as a formidable contender for the party’s ticket. The move introduces a new dimension to the APM’s internal political calculations, with Waziri’s supporters insisting that he commands wider national appeal than other aspirants being linked to the race.
Supporters Argue National Appeal
One of his supporters, Isa Mohammed, argued that Waziri’s political reach extends beyond regional boundaries. “Makinde’s support is restricted to Oyo and Osun states where he was pronounced as a presidential candidate,” Mohammed said. “We are confident that Dr. Ibrahim is receiving the support of politicians that matter across Nigeria who are positioned to take over power in 2027.” He also expressed confidence that Waziri would ultimately emerge as the party’s officially recognised presidential candidate. “He is certain that his name will be officially recognised by INEC as the authentic APM presidential candidate for the 2027 election,” Mohammed added.
Waziri’s Political Background
Waziri, a veteran politician from Ningi Local Government Area of Bauchi State, is no stranger to Nigeria’s political landscape. He was active during the Third Republic and participated in the historic 1993 Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential primaries in Jos that produced the late Chief MKO Abiola as the party’s flag bearer. Over the years, he has sought several elective offices, including governorship and senatorial positions, building a reputation among supporters as a grassroots politician with extensive political experience. Beyond politics, Waziri is recognised as one of the pioneers of indigenous computer and telecommunications enterprises in Nigeria. He studied Political Economy, Accounting, Software and Data Processing in the United States and holds a doctorate degree in Political Economy. His public profile received a further boost recently following his installation as Sarkin Sullubawan Bauchi by the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleimanu Adamu.
Proposed Agenda
In adopting Waziri, stakeholders cited what they described as his experience in governance, economic management and nation-building. According to them, Nigeria’s current challenges require leadership focused on security, poverty reduction, national cohesion and institutional reforms. They said Waziri’s proposed agenda centres on “National Security, Poverty Alleviation, National Unity and Democratic Accountability”—issues they believe are critical to the country’s future stability and development.
Awaiting Reactions
Efforts to obtain reactions from party figures linked to Makinde’s reported presidential ambition were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report. With political parties yet to formally commence the process of selecting presidential candidates, the latest development highlights the growing battle for influence and positioning ahead of what is expected to be a highly competitive 2027 presidential race.
