Oluyole FM Interview: Aborode Backs Makinde for President, Says APM ready to redefine, recalibrate and retool governance in Nigeria for a new Nigeria by 2027
A chieftain of the Allied People's Movement (APM), Alhaji Aborode Majekodunmi, has thrown his weight behind the presidential ambition of Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, describing him as a tested political strategist capable of reforming Nigeria and restoring the nation's lost glory.
Aborode made the remarks while featuring on a political programme aired on Oluyole FM, where he spoke extensively on the political situation in the country, the emerging APM-PDP alliance, and the prospects of Governor Makinde in the 2027 presidential race.
According to him, Governor Makinde has distinguished himself as a visionary leader and accomplished administrator whose performance in Oyo State over the past seven years has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities.
"Governor Seyi Makinde is a natural political strategist who has been tested and has passed beyond reasonable doubts. He is young, a silent achiever and a silent hunter who always ensures that he hits his target. He is a man of destiny, a man of purpose, and a man of unlimited probabilities. These qualities have made him record outstanding achievements as Governor of Oyo State," Aborode stated.
The APM stalwart expressed concern over the current state of the nation, insisting that Nigeria is in dire need of reforms and fresh leadership capable of addressing the country's numerous challenges.
He argued that Governor Makinde possesses the vision and competence required to reposition Nigeria, adding that the ongoing efforts by opposition forces to build a formidable coalition are aimed at providing Nigerians with a credible alternative.
"Currently, the country is under siege and what Nigeria needs is comprehensive reform. If given the opportunity, Governor Makinde will transform the country into its desired form. Nigerians deserve better than the current situation. This is why the APM-PDP alliance is necessary, and Governor Makinde is among those leading this mission," he said.
Aborode further accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of failing to address critical national issues, including insecurity and economic hardship, stressing that many Nigerians are dissatisfied with the current administration.
"What have Nigerians gained from APC at the centre so far? The level of insecurity is alarming and hunger is widespread. Our people are not better off. We are confident that Nigerians will choose Governor Makinde under the APM platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu and offer a new direction for the country," he stated.
While declining to reveal the party's campaign strategies ahead of the elections, Aborode maintained that the APM was fully prepared for the political contest ahead. "APM is well prepared. I won't disclose our tactical strategies on air, but I can confidently say that Governor Makinde is ready, and Nigerians are also ready to vote massively for him. My belief is that people make a political party; it is not a political party that makes the people," he added.
Speaking on Makinde's credentials, Aborode said the governor's track record in Oyo State would serve as his strongest campaign tool, noting that the benefits of democracy enjoyed by residents of the state under his administration are visible for all to see.
He expressed confidence that Makinde would replicate his governance style at the national level if elected president.
"Governor Makinde will be judged by his outstanding performance in Oyo State. The dividends of democracy enjoyed by the people speak for themselves. As a natural strategist, he knows how to shoot, when to shoot and what to shoot. He is a silent hunter and a goal-getter," he said.
The APM leader also advocated the establishment of state police, describing it as a practical solution to Nigeria's security challenges.
According to him, security is local and governors should be empowered to exercise direct control over security architecture within their respective states. "It is very important to have state police because security is local. With state police, governors will have authority over their security apparatus, and officers who understand the terrain and communities will be better positioned to identify and flush out criminal elements," he explained.
Aborode further urged Nigerians to familiarize themselves with the APM symbol on the ballot paper ahead of future elections, emphasizing that all candidates under the alliance arrangement would contest on the platform of the Allied People's Movement.
He explained that the party's symbol, cassava, represents abundance and food security, urging supporters not to be confused during the voting process. "APM will be on the ballot and our people should not be confused. Cassava represents plenty food. All voters need to do is look out for the cassava symbol and cast their votes. The alliance has resolved to field candidates under APM, and we believe this is the pathway to sustaining good governance and delivering a better Nigeria," he concluded.
The remarks have further fueled political discussions ahead of the 2027 general elections, as opposition forces continue consultations aimed at building a broad coalition capable of challenging the ruling party at the national level.
