Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed backs Makinde as the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 election — FirstNigerian.com reports.
Mohammed announced his support on Friday during a meeting with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde in Bauchi, where both leaders discussed party affairs, insecurity and the future of democracy.
The Bauchi governor said APM could provide quality leadership if Nigerians chose the party to lead the country.
“With him as our presidential candidate working tirelessly, and with the support of the party leadership, APM is well-positioned to take this country to greater heights,” he said.
Makinde’s National Profile Grows
The endorsement has increased attention around Makinde’s possible role in the 2027 presidential race.
Makinde has led Oyo State since 2019 and remains one of the better-known figures in opposition politics. His supporters point to projects in roads, infrastructure and economic development as key achievements of his administration.
Makinde said he visited Bauchi to seek Mohammed’s views on issues affecting the party and the country.
“When there are issues, before I run to anybody, I will run to someone I know is of the same ideologies as myself,” he said.
APM Seeks Wider Support
Mohammed said APM was working to become a stronger opposition party before the 2027 election.
He said the party had the experience and people needed to provide effective leadership.
APM must now build stronger support across Nigeria and convince voters of its ability to compete nationally.
Makinde’s endorsement adds his name to early discussions about the next presidential contest. The political picture will become clearer as parties select candidates and build alliances.
Opposition Race Takes Shape
The development comes as political parties begin early preparations for the 2027 election.
Bala Mohammed’s endorsement gives Makinde more visibility outside the South-West, where he has built his political base as Oyo governor.
However, APM faces the challenge of expanding its reach across Nigeria and attracting more supporters before the election.
Other political groups are also expected to begin forming alliances as the race for the presidency becomes more competitive.
