Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of trying to weaken opposition parties and prevent them from uniting ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Makinde made the allegation on Tuesday during the MakindeDaura 2027 Presidency South-South Town Hall meeting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Speaking as the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential candidate, he urged voters in the South-South to reclaim what he described as their political mandate.
He claimed that the APC had little presence across the region before the 2023 presidential election but later expanded its influence at the expense of other parties.
Makinde Accuses APC of Weakening Opposition
The governor alleged that the ruling party was working to prevent opposition parties from forming a united front.
According to Makinde, five of the six South-South states were not controlled by the APC before the 2023 election. He argued that political developments after the poll changed the region’s political balance.
He urged residents to reassess their political choices ahead of the next election.
Makinde also expressed confidence that the APM could secure support across the region in 2027.
“I am one hundred and one percent sure that just like during the 2023 elections, this zone did not vote APC, they will vote APM in the next election,” he said.
His remarks form part of the party’s efforts to attract voters as political activity builds towards the next general election.
Makinde Criticises Tinubu’s Economic Policies
Makinde also criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration over its economic policies and the implementation of major projects.
He argued that some government initiatives had failed to deliver the expected relief to Nigerians, particularly in the area of transportation costs.
The governor questioned the impact of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas initiative and the naira-for-crude arrangement.
He challenged the Federal Government to demonstrate how its policies had improved the lives of ordinary citizens.
“Has it translated to lower cost of transportation for millions of Nigerians?” Makinde asked.
He further criticised what he described as an excessive focus on large-scale projects and complicated policy announcements.
The governor called for clear plans supported by figures and practical steps that Nigerians could assess.
APM Promises Reset Agenda
Makinde outlined the APM’s proposed Reset Agenda, which he said would focus on education, economic growth, security and federalism.
He also highlighted the contrast between the South-South’s oil wealth and the economic difficulties faced by many residents.
The governor said his party would prioritise skills development, knowledge acquisition and economic opportunities as part of its plans for Nigeria.
He also spoke about addressing security challenges and improving governance.
Makinde’s comments add to the growing political debate over the economy, opposition unity and the direction of Nigeria’s leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.
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