Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has declared his intention to contest Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.
Makinde made the announcement on Thursday during the PDP and APM Unity Mega Rally in Ibadan.
The rally held at the historic Mapo Hall in Oyo State drew politicians, supporters and coalition groups.
The event carried the theme: “Nigeria Needs a Reset.”
Makinde described his ambition as a response to Nigeria’s worsening economic and social conditions.
He said his decision was about rescuing the country rather than personal political ambition.
Meanwhile, the gathering signalled a growing alliance involving members of the Peoples Democratic Party and the Allied Peoples Movement.
Supporters described the coalition as an effort to rebuild public confidence ahead of the 2027 elections.
Furthermore, Makinde told supporters the country needed fresh direction after years of hardship and instability.
PDP Rejects Ibadan Coalition Gathering
However, the PDP leadership in Abuja quickly distanced itself from the Ibadan rally.
Party spokesman Jungudo Haruna Mohammed told journalists the PDP had no alliance with the APM.
He said: “The PDP is not part of any alliance, coalition, agreement, or political arrangement with the Allied Peoples Movement.”
The party also rejected claims that the rally represented any official PDP activity.
Furthermore, PDP leaders accused Makinde and his allies of creating a false image of political support.
The party alleged that some organisers acted without approval from the recognised PDP leadership.
Meanwhile, the PDP said it had contacted security agencies over alleged impersonation involving rival party figures.
National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu said the police and DSS had already invited some individuals for questioning.
“The matter is before the security agencies in Nigeria,” he said.
The PDP also insisted there was only one recognised National Working Committee.
Political Tension Deepens Before 2027 Race
The dispute adds fresh tension to opposition politics ahead of the next presidential election cycle.
Makinde has become one of Nigeria’s most influential opposition governors since assuming office in 2019.
His administration in Oyo State gained attention for infrastructure projects and education spending.
Meanwhile, divisions inside the PDP have continued since the party lost the 2023 presidential election.
Several factions have battled over leadership control, candidate selection and coalition strategies.
The Ibadan rally now appears to have widened those internal divisions.
Furthermore, the PDP said it was conducting official screening exercises for governorship and presidential aspirants in Abuja.
The party maintained that activities linked to the Ibadan coalition were null and void.
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