Alhaji Lawal Daura, the vice‑presidential candidate of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), said on Saturday in Abuja that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is the most competent and credible contender for Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.
Daura made the statement while receiving leaders of the Northern Patriotic Front (NPF) at the party’s presidential campaign headquarters in the capital.
He argued that Makinde stands “head and shoulders” above other aspirants because of a proven track record in public office, a clear vision for national development, and a reputation built on successful business and finance experience before entering politics.
Daura reassured Nigerians, especially those in the North, that a Makinde‑Daura ticket would operate as a four‑year, all‑inclusive transitional government aimed at uniting the country.
According to him, this interim framework is designed to radically overhaul and reset the nation’s economy, education system, security architecture, and broader socio‑political environment.
He urged voters to move beyond ethnic and religious considerations, insisting that anyone seeking public office must undergo rigorous scrutiny of personal history and stewardship of public resources.
Daura challenged sceptics to examine Makinde’s credentials, highlighting the governor’s background as a successful businessman with extensive finance expertise prior to his political career.
“I was happy when you said that you went to Oyo State and you have confirmed the quality of governance and unprecedented development by our presidential candidate. So, I throw a challenge that anyone who is still doubting whether our candidate is the most competent to be elected as president should examine his antecedents and performance,” Daura said.
He further stressed the need for a decisive break from past governance failures, noting that Nigeria can no longer tolerate empty leadership. “Before venturing into politics and eventually becoming governor of Oyo State, he established himself as a successful businessman and a man with considerable experience in finance. Beyond his personal integrity, we should also examine his record in public office. What has he achieved? Look at his performance; his transparency and accountability set him apart,” Daura added.
NPF President Alhaji Ali Abacha formally pledged the undivided support of northern political stakeholders for the APM ticket. He said the northern region strongly resonated with Makinde’s “Reset Nigeria” message and backed the vision of a four‑year transitional administration.
Abacha also praised Daura, describing him as a respected security expert, and said the pairing of Makinde and Daura has boosted national confidence in tackling the country’s widespread insecurity.
The endorsement marks a significant moment for the APM as it seeks to position its ticket as a credible alternative in the lead‑up to the 2027 general elections.