The Lagos State governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Laja Adeoye, on Wednesday urged opposition presidential candidates to unite behind Governor Seyi Makinde’s 2027 presidential ambition.

Mr Makinde, the governor of Oyo State, has declared his intention to run for the presidency under the APM.

Speaking to journalists, Mr Adeoye urged the presidential candidates of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, to “set aside ego” and support Mr Makinde to defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

He said Mr Makinde remained the most qualified among all presidential hopefuls because of his record of performance, transparency, inclusive leadership, and youth-friendly governance.

“I call on them to step down for Seyi Makinde so that he can represent the aspirations of Nigerians in the 2027 election,” Mr Adeoye said. “I believe he possesses the leadership qualities needed to transform Nigeria.”

According to him, Nigerians should assess presidential candidates the same way employers assess workers, by evaluating their performance and achievements.

“Seyi Makinde stands out among every one of the candidates across political parties as a top performer. He has this youthful energy that connects and resonates with young Nigerian people. In Nigeria today, the largest population comprises young people,” he said.

Mr Adeoye, who confirmed talks among opposition leaders on presenting a consensus presidential candidate, said the opposition parties were bound to fail if they approached the elections divided.

“There was a summit in Ibadan in April where we declared that there should be a single candidate for 2027. The conversation has been renewed, and I believe it is ongoing.

“Everybody must set aside ego and personal interest to rescue Nigeria. Multiple opposition candidates could divide votes and aid the ruling party’s re-election.

“What does it profit anybody if everyone insists on being on the ballot, loses the election, and allows an unpopular government to return?

“I believe wisdom will prevail over ego ahead of the 2027 election,” he said.

Mr Adeoye said Mr Makinde had demonstrated competence in infrastructure development and prudent management of public resources.

The APM governorship candidate described Mr Makinde as a detribalised Nigerian capable of promoting national unity.

“So, he will unite Nigerian people, bring sanity to the economy, and strengthen national cohesion,” he said.

Mr Adeoye expressed optimism that Mr Makinde would emerge victorious in the presidential election.

(NAN)