The political atmosphere in Nigeria has continued to witness intense reactions following the historic declaration of the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, to contest for the presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2027.
Governor Makinde made the bold declaration at the ancient Mapo Hall in Ibadan during the widely attended PDP/APM Unity Mega Rally held on Thursday, a development that has since sent strong signals across the nation’s political landscape.
Reacting to the declaration, the federal lawmaker representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Folajimi Oyekunle, described the moment as a turning point for Nigerians yearning for purposeful leadership and national rebirth.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the rally, Hon. Oyekunle, popularly known as DON, stated that the people now have “a real mandate to stand on,” noting that Governor Makinde’s presidential ambition represents the collective hope and aspiration of ordinary Nigerians.
According to him, the movement is beyond politics, stressing that it is a people-driven mission aimed at repositioning Nigeria for progress, stability, and inclusive governance.
“We now have a genuine mandate to stand on, and it is the people’s mandate through Engr. Seyi Makinde. This is the movement Nigerians have been waiting for, and we will all stand firmly behind it,” DON said.
The lawmaker further urged residents of Ibadan North Federal Constituency and Nigerians at large to key into the emerging political movement under the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), which he described as the new platform for progressive-minded citizens seeking continuity and national transformation.
Hon. Oyekunle also disclosed that he would be contesting again to represent Ibadan North Federal Constituency under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), alongside Governor Makinde’s presidential ambition and other party candidates across various levels.
He called on the people to support continuity in leadership and rally behind the movement to “reset Nigeria from the top.”
“The APM is the platform for the future. I urge our people to join this movement and vote for continuity. Together, we can reset Nigeria from the top and build a nation that truly works for everyone,” he added.
The declaration at Mapo has continued to dominate political conversations nationwide, with analysts describing it as one of the most significant political developments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
