Seyi Makinde, the African Political Movement (APM) presidential candidate, has declared that Peter Obi is qualified to become Nigeria’s president, while ruling out any political alliance with President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election.
Makinde said he was willing to work with opposition figures, including Obi and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, as well as some members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), to reposition the country.
However, he ruled out working with Tinubu, citing previous agreements with the president which he alleged were not honoured.
The APM presidential candidate made the remarks while outlining his political position ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing the need for a broad political coalition to reset Nigeria.
“I am ready to work with main opposition figures like Peter Obi and Atiku to reset Nigeria, including members of the APC, excluding President Tinubu, because I have had agreements with him in the past and he did not keep to them,” Makinde said.
He also expressed willingness to work with former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, insisting that his position on the former minister was different from his stance on Tinubu.
“I will work with Nyesom Wike. His case is different from Tinubu’s. There is nothing personal,” he added.
Makinde’s comments could add a new dimension to political realignments ahead of the 2027 presidential election, particularly as opposition figures continue to explore possible alliances to challenge the ruling APC.
His endorsement of Obi’s presidential credentials, alongside his openness to working with Atiku, also raises the prospect of wider consultations among opposition leaders seeking a common political direction.
Nigeria’s 2027 general election is expected to witness intense political competition, with questions surrounding opposition unity, possible coalitions and the emergence of formidable presidential contenders likely to dominate the political landscape.
