2027: MAKINDE CAN’T CHALLENGE TINUBU, OYO APC DECLARES

The All Progressives Congress in Oyo State has declared that Governor Seyi Makinde lacks the political capacity and experience to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

The party described Makinde’s reported presidential ambition as a political drama aimed at creating noise and distracting Nigerians, while accusing the governor of using public resources to pursue his political interests.

In a statement issued in Ibadan on Sunday, the Oyo APC Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, warned that those allegedly responsible for misusing state resources would be made to account for the funds at the appropriate time.

The APC’s position followed a statement by Makinde on Saturday that he would be available to receive more chieftaincy titles after completing his tenure in May 2027, saying he would be free and have little serious work to do.

Makinde made the remark shortly after he was installed as the Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland by the Eleruwa of Eruwa during the monarch’s first coronation anniversary in Eruwa, the headquarters of Ibarapa East Local Government Area.

The governor was also reported to have warned traditional rulers and institutions against taking sides in the 2027 election.

However, the Oyo APC cautioned Makinde against allegedly threatening citizens, including traditional rulers and religious leaders, simply because they receive APC candidates and supporters in their palaces and places of worship.

The party maintained that Makinde does not have the political resources, experience or strategy required to compete with Tinubu in the presidential election.

Sadare alleged that the governor’s presidential ambition was being pursued under the platform of the Allied People’s Movement and described the party as lacking a strong political structure.

The APC spokesperson also claimed that even if Makinde eventually appears on the presidential ballot, he would struggle to make a significant impact in the election.

According to the party, many Nigerians and influential figures already consider Tinubu the preferred candidate for the 2027 election, while the issue of his successor would subsequently shift towards the northern region.

The Oyo APC further questioned Makinde’s suitability to govern Nigeria, arguing that the country requires experienced leadership at a critical period.

The party said it would continue monitoring the governor’s political activities as he pursues his reported presidential ambition.

Sadare also warned that the government would seek to recover any public funds allegedly spent on the governor’s political activities if such misuse is established.