Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has signaled his readiness for Nigeria’s highest political office, stating he has the capacity to lead the nation. Makinde emphasized that the 2027 elections would be a choice between Nigerians and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), not merely a PDP vs. APC contest.
Makinde, a prominent PDP figure serving his second term, said:
“I have no doubt I can occupy the highest office in the land. But is that what Nigerians want now? That decision lies ahead.”
He stressed the need to first rebuild the PDP before pursuing national ambitions. “Your house must be in order before inviting others,” he said, referencing recent rejections of a coalition spearheaded by PDP’s Atiku Abubakar.
While opposition figures like Peter Obi and Nasir El-Rufai push for a merger to unseat President Bola Tinubu, Makinde and other PDP governors have distanced themselves from such moves, citing internal party priorities.
Addressing questions about a 2027 presidential run, Makinde replied:
“Nobody will set an agenda for me. I will decide at the right time.”
For now, he remains focused on delivering progress to Oyo State, highlighting infrastructure and governance as key priorities.