Vice-presidential candidate of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), Alhaji Lawal Daura, has declared Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State the most competent and credible presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

Mr Daura made the declaration while receiving leaders of the Northern Patriotic Front (NPF) at the party’s presidential campaign headquarters in Abuja on Saturday.

The vice-presidential candidate said Mr Makinde stood head and shoulders above his political rivals based on his proven track record, performance in public office and unmatched vision for national development.

He reassured citizens across the country, particularly in the Northern region, that a Makinde-Daura administration would function as a four-year, all-inclusive transitional government of national unity.

Mr Daura explained that the interim framework was specifically designed to radically overhaul and reset Nigeria’s economy, education system, security architecture and socio-political environment.

While urging the electorate to look beyond ethnic and religious biases, he said public office seekers must face rigorous scrutiny regarding their personal antecedents and stewardship.

He challenged sceptics to examine Makinde’s credentials, stressing that he had built a solid reputation as a successful businessman with extensive experience in finance before transitioning into politics.

According to him, true national progress relies entirely on holding leaders accountable for how they manage public trust and resources.

“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 to examine his antecedents and performance,” he stated.

Mr Daura further emphasised the critical need for a complete departure from past governance failures, arguing that Nigeria could no longer afford to tolerate empty leadership.

“Before venturing into politics and eventually becoming governor of Oyo State, he had 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,” Mr Daura added.

The NPF president, Ali Abacha, formally pledged the undivided support of northern political stakeholders for the APM ticket.

Mr Abacha noted that the Northern region deeply resonated with Makinde’s ‘Reset Nigeria’ message and supported the vision of a four-year transitional administration.

He praised the inclusion of Mr Daura, whom he described as a respected security expert, as the vice-presidential nominee, saying the pairing had inspired immense confidence in the nation’s ability to tackle widespread insecurity.

(NAN)