Makinde Declares 2027 Presidential Bid, Launches Reset Nigeria

IBADAN — Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has officially declared his intention to run for president in the 2027 general elections. He launched the Reset Nigeria Movement at a weekend rally and announced a strategic alliance with the Allied Peoples Movement.

Makinde told supporters that Nigeria needs a complete reset in governance, economic management, and security. He said the country has drifted too far from its potential and that bold leadership is urgently needed to bring it back on track.

“Nigeria must be reset. We have the talent, the resources, and the people. What we need is the right leadership. I am stepping forward to provide that leadership,” Makinde told a large crowd of supporters at the rally.

The APM alliance gives Makinde a wider political platform beyond the PDP. His Turaki faction of the PDP has been supportive. However, legal uncertainty over PDP’s national leadership means Makinde is building multiple political vehicles for his 2027 campaign.

A Crowded Race

Makinde’s declaration adds another major name to an already crowded 2027 presidential field. Peter Obi has pledged to run on a one-term promise. Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi have submitted ADC forms. Goodluck Jonathan has been cleared by the Turaki PDP faction.

In addition, SDP’s Adewole Adebayo and NNPP’s Rabiu Kwankwaso are also expected to be in the race. The opposition landscape is fragmented. Analysts say the crowded field could split the anti-Tinubu vote and hand the incumbent a second term.

Makinde, however, believes he offers something different. He points to his record in Oyo State as evidence of what he can do nationally. Under his leadership, Oyo has improved its internally generated revenue and infrastructure record significantly.

Challenge Ahead

Nevertheless, Makinde faces serious challenges. The recent Oriire school abduction happened on his watch and has raised questions about security in Oyo State. His handling of that crisis will be closely scrutinised as he presents himself as a national security leader.

Furthermore, the Reset Nigeria Movement is new and untested. Building a national structure that can compete in all 36 states and the FCT in just 18 months is an enormous logistical challenge. His team says they are already working on state coordinators.

The 2027 election is shaping up as one of Nigeria’s most fiercely contested races since the return to democracy in 1999. Makinde’s entry ensures the southwest will be a major battleground, with both him and Tinubu competing for regional political dominance.