Oyo State Governor and presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Seyi Makinde, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of working to weaken opposition parties and push Nigeria towards a one-party state.
Makinde made the remarks during a live interview with the Bauchi Radio Corporation (BRC) on Friday, November 6, ahead of the flag-off of his 2027 presidential campaign in Bauchi.
The governor described the recent Federal High Court judgment affecting the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its presidential candidate, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, as unfortunate and a threat to democratic governance.
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The ruling reportedly nullified the ADC leadership structure and the process that produced Atiku as the party’s presidential candidate. The party has rejected the judgment and indicated it would challenge the decision.
Makinde urged President Bola Tinubu and the APC to allow opposition parties to operate freely, warning against moves that could undermine political competition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“There is no way Nigeria can be a one-party state; the APC must get that clear. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC should allow opposition to breathe,” he said.
Makinde criticises Tinubu’s economic policies
The APM candidate also faulted the economic policies of the Tinubu administration, arguing that major reforms were introduced without adequate planning or a clear implementation framework.
He said the policies had worsened the economic hardship confronting Nigerians, adding that the country was also grappling with serious insecurity.
According to Makinde, economic instability and insecurity require fundamental structural reforms and strong political will to address.
He maintained that Nigeria needs a different approach to governance capable of tackling the challenges confronting the country.
APM promises alternative policy direction
Makinde said the APM’s “Reset Nigeria Agenda”, supported by a policy framework and manifesto, would provide an alternative approach to the country’s challenges.
He explained that the agenda focuses on reforming critical sectors of the economy, promoting sustainable development and restoring true federalism.
The governor said Nigeria’s federal structure should respect the country’s diverse nationalities, arguing that its diversity should be treated as a source of strength and unity rather than division.
He added that his proposed reforms would aim to reposition Nigeria for sustainable economic growth, strengthen national cohesion and address challenges affecting democratic governance.
Campaign flag-off in Bauchi
Makinde’s campaign flag-off is scheduled for Saturday, November 7, at the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Memorial Stadium in Bauchi, with party leaders, candidates and supporters expected to attend.
The Bauchi event marks the start of the APM’s nationwide campaign activities ahead of the 2027 presidential election, as the party seeks to present its policy agenda to voters across the country.
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