The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the presidential ambition of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, describing it as politically unviable. This comes amid growing debate over the recently announced alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Wike's Remarks During Infrastructure Inspection
Wike made the remarks while addressing journalists during an inspection of ongoing road infrastructure projects in Abuja. This occurred shortly after Makinde publicly declared his presidential ambition at a political rally in Ibadan.
Questioning the Legitimacy of the Alliance
The former Rivers State governor questioned the legitimacy of the reported PDP-APM alliance, insisting that no officially recognised coalition exists between both political parties. According to him, claims suggesting a formal alliance were misleading and unsupported by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which he said has no record of such an arrangement.
Motives Behind the Alliance
Wike argued that the political movement surrounding the alliance was primarily designed to advance Makinde's presidential aspiration rather than reflect a genuine coalition within the opposition bloc. He further maintained that the PDP would independently field its own presidential candidate for the 2027 elections, stressing that the party remains fully capable of participating in the electoral process without external political arrangements.
Political Context and Reactions
The comments come amid intensifying political realignments and early positioning by key figures ahead of the next presidential contest. Opposition parties are exploring possible alliances to strengthen their chances in future elections. Makinde had earlier declared his intention to contest for the presidency during a mega rally held in Ibadan under the PDP-APM platform, where he called for political restructuring and renewed opposition cooperation.
Political observers say the exchange between both leaders reflects deepening divisions within sections of the opposition camp, particularly within the PDP, as consultations and power negotiations continue ahead of party primaries. The latest development is expected to further shape conversations around coalition politics, party loyalty, and leadership ambitions within Nigeria's evolving political landscape.
