Former Buhari aide Bashir Ahmad has criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s presidential bid, saying the move benefits the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Ahmad, who served as an aide to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, posted the comment on his verified X account shortly after Makinde announced his intention to run for president in the upcoming general elections.
Makinde’s declaration was made at a large rally in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, organized by the PDP‑APM alliance. The event attracted a sizeable gathering of party supporters, political stakeholders and allied figures. In his speech, Makinde stated that he would contest the presidency in the 2027 election cycle, positioning himself as a key figure in the opposition’s preparation for the next national contest.
Ahmad’s response was brief. “I just read that Governor Seyi Makinde has declared his intention to contest for the presidency in the 2027 general elections. Well, for our great party, the APC, the more the merrier,” he wrote.
The comment underscores the political tension between the ruling party and the opposition as Nigeria gears up for the next electoral round. While Makinde’s announcement signals a consolidation of the PDP‑APM alliance ahead of the 2027 polls, Ahmad’s remarks reflect the APC’s confidence that any additional challenger will fragment opposition votes, potentially benefitting the incumbent party.
Analysts note that Makinde’s entry into the presidential race could reshape alliances in the southwestern region, where the PDP traditionally enjoys strong support. The governor’s move also highlights a broader trend of state‑level leaders seeking higher office, a dynamic that may influence party strategies and candidate selection processes in the coming months.
As the election calendar advances, both the APC and opposition coalitions are expected to intensify their campaign preparations. Observers will watch how Makinde’s candidacy affects voter alignments, intra‑party negotiations and the overall competitiveness of the 2027 elections. Further statements from the APC, PDP and allied parties are likely as the political landscape continues to evolve.
