The presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement, Seyi Makinde, has expressed confidence in his chances of winning the 2027 election, attributing his ambition to divine backing and the support of Nigerians.
The Oyo State Governor made the declaration on Sunday while addressing worshippers at the Church of Christ in Nations in Jos, Plateau State.
Makinde maintained that his presidential bid was not dependent on political godfathers but on his faith in God and the backing of the electorate.
According to a statement issued by his campaign’s Director of Strategic Communications, Richard Ihediwa, the governor said his decision to contest was motivated by the need to reposition Nigeria through effective governance and tackle persistent challenges affecting the country.
The statement read in part, “The APM presidential candidate specifically said that his aspiration is not backed by any political godfather but by God Almighty and the people of Nigeria.
He expressed optimism that God would be merciful to Nigerians by providing the right leadership through the 2027 presidential election.
Recalling his political journey ahead of the 2019 Oyo governorship election, Makinde said he had faced doubts about his ability to emerge victorious without the backing of influential political figures.
He said, “‘When I said in Oyo State in 2018 that I would like to be governor, somebody asked me, “Governor of which Rotary District?” I said Governor of Oyo State, and they asked, “With no godfather; nobody in politics who can stand in for you?” I responded by saying, well, I have God the Father. And I became the Governor of Oyo State.
“‘This time around, we also have God the Father, and God will be merciful unto Nigeria and He will show us mercy in this country.’”
The governor also highlighted his administration’s approach to governance in Oyo State, citing planning, transparency and accountability as its guiding principles. He noted that development plans had been established to cover his two terms in office between 2019 and 2027.
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Presenting his Reset Nigeria Agenda, Makinde identified security, economic development, education and the socio-political system as the four major areas requiring urgent attention.
He also called on Nigerians to assess his proposed policies and hold him responsible for delivering on his commitments.
The statement further read, “While presenting the Reset Nigeria Manifesto to the leadership of the Church, Makinde asked Nigerians to hold him accountable for the promises in the document.
“‘I want Nigerians to be able to hold me accountable, not just through promises but through documented commitments. Everything is written down in black and white, and I am prepared to be held accountable for everything contained in this document.’”
Makinde further appealed to Nigerians, especially Christians, to become actively involved in the political process and prepare to exercise their democratic rights during the 2027 election.
He said, “Please, get ready and participate. History is about to happen again.”
In his remarks, the President of COCIN, Rev. Amos Mohzo, urged the governor to prioritise solutions to the country’s pressing problems, particularly insecurity and economic difficulties.
Mohzo also prayed for Makinde’s success in the 2027 presidential contest and encouraged him to remain committed to his political ambition, expressing hope that God’s will would guide his journey.
The governor’s visit to Jos followed the commencement of his presidential campaign in Bauchi State on Saturday. He is also expected to attend the APM’s Plateau State rally scheduled for Monday at Rayfield Park.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled the 2027 presidential election for January 16.