Makinde Declares for 2027 Presidency as Chief Dr. Olayinka Adewale Gbolahan-Ibikunle Backs Historic PDP-APM Alliance
A major political realignment took place today at the iconic Mapo Hall as His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, officially declared his intention to contest for the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the 2027 general elections.
The declaration was made during the Unity Mega Rally jointly organized by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), attracting thousands of supporters, party leaders, political stakeholders, youths, women groups, and community leaders from across Oyo State and beyond.
The rally also marked the formal unveiling of a strategic alliance between the PDP and APM ahead of the 2027 elections, with leaders of both parties pledging to work together toward strengthening democracy and providing Nigerians with a credible political alternative.
Addressing the crowd at Mapo Hall, Governor Makinde called on Nigerians and opposition leaders across the country to unite against attempts to weaken democratic opposition and impose a one-party structure on the nation.
“I call on Nigerians to rise above being political spectators and bystanders. With the collective participation of all Nigerians of eligible voting age, we will record a historic reset come 2027,” Governor Makinde declared.
In a strong show of support for Governor Makinde’s presidential ambition and the PDP-APM alliance, Chief Dr. Olayinka Adewale Gbolahan-Ibikunle, the Balogun of Arometa and an aspirant for Ibadan North West Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly, described the declaration as a defining moment in Nigeria’s political history.
In a statement issued shortly after the rally, Chief Dr. Olayinka Adewale Gbolahan-Ibikunle expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde, leaders of the PDP and APM, and the people of Oyo State for what he described as “a courageous and visionary step toward national transformation.”
According to him:
“Today, history has been made at the iconic Mapo Hall, Ibadan. Under the leadership of our performing Governor, His Excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde, the PDP and APM have come together in a historic alliance, and our Governor has boldly declared his intention to contest for the Presidency in 2027.
“This moment is not just about political alignment. It is about rescuing Nigeria’s democracy, restoring hope, and giving Nigerians a credible alternative that prioritizes competence, inclusivity, and national unity over division and imposition.”
Chief Dr. Olayinka Adewale Gbolahan-Ibikunle further stated that the alliance represents a coalition built on merit, transparency, grassroots engagement, and internal democracy, stressing that the movement is focused on credible leadership and people-oriented governance.
He also reaffirmed his aspiration to represent Ibadan North West Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly, stating that his ambition is driven by a desire to provide accessible, accountable, and result-oriented representation for the people.
“I remain committed to the ideals of leadership with vision, service, and integrity. Our people deserve representation that listens, engages, and delivers tangible results that positively impact every ward and community within Ibadan North West,” he stated.
Chief Dr. Olayinka Adewale Gbolahan-Ibikunle pledged continued support for initiatives that promote youth empowerment, infrastructure development, education, agriculture, and inclusive community growth across the constituency.
He also commended Governor Makinde’s achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment across Oyo State, noting that the PDP-APM alliance is committed to consolidating these gains while supporting a broader national vision for progress and democratic stability.
The Unity Mega Rally ended with renewed enthusiasm among party supporters and stakeholders, as chants of solidarity and unity echoed across Mapo Hall in support of Governor Makinde’s 2027 presidential ambition and the growing PDP-APM alliance movement across Nigeria.
