Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has declared himself fit to serve as Nigeria’s president, citing his experience as a two-term governor and his professional background as an engineer.
Makinde spoke to journalists in Ibadan on Tuesday, stressing that his leadership of Oyo State has prepared him for the nation’s highest office. “Let me make this very clear: to serve this country at the highest level, I am qualified — I’m even overqualified,” he said. “By the end of May 2027, I will have completed a full two-term tenure as governor.”
The governor also highlighted his corporate experience, noting that he ran a company at 29 while peers were completing youth service, and worked for multinational oil firms including Shell, ExxonMobil, and Chevron.
While acknowledging speculation about his potential 2027 presidential bid, Makinde said it is still early to talk about the race. He emphasized the importance of a strong opposition, criticizing the defection of politicians to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which he believes weakens Nigeria’s democracy.
Makinde, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), clarified that he would not follow former allies, such as FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, in supporting President Bola Tinubu in 2027. “Wike can support the president, but I will not,” he stated.
He added that his immediate priority is the survival and revitalization of the PDP, which has suffered significant losses due to defections among governors, lawmakers, and other party members.
