Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has declared that he would serve only four years as President if elected, pledging to use the single term to deliver transformative leadership and reset Nigeria's governance framework.
Makinde made the declaration while addressing the Action Peoples Party (APM) North-East zonal meeting, where he was formally presented to party stakeholders ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
A One-Term Pledge
The governor said his decision to commit to a single four-year term was deliberate, explaining that the presidency should not be treated as a lifetime ambition but as an opportunity for service.
According to him, a leader who is not preoccupied with re-election is better positioned to make bold, unpopular but necessary decisions in the interest of the nation.
He urged Nigerians to hold him accountable to the pledge, stating that he would not seek an extension beyond the constitutionally guaranteed four years.
Why the APM Platform
Makinde explained that his choice of the APM was informed by the party's structure, grassroots orientation, and commitment to credible, issue-based politics.
He noted that the APM had demonstrated the capacity to accommodate the broad coalition of Nigerians needed to challenge the established order, adding that the 2027 election would be about competence rather than party labels.
Message to the North-East
Addressing party delegates and stakeholders from the North-East, Makinde said the region remained central to his vision of a united and prosperous Nigeria.
He promised to prioritise security, agriculture, education, and infrastructure in the region if elected, and pledged that appointments and projects would reflect the zone's contribution to the national project.
Reactions from APM Stakeholders
APM leaders at the meeting welcomed Makinde's declaration, describing him as a credible and detribalised leader capable of uniting the country.
They said the party would work to build a formidable structure in the North-East and across the country to ensure victory in 2027.
The meeting ended with a resolution to intensify grassroots mobilisation, with party officials directed to commence ward-level engagements ahead of the polls.
Political Context
Makinde's declaration adds a fresh dimension to the 2027 presidential race, which has seen a series of realignments and defections in recent weeks.
By publicly committing to a single term, he is seeking to distinguish himself from the field and address concerns about the motivations of aspirants.
Analysts say his pledge could resonate with voters who have grown weary of prolonged political ambitions, though the APM's capacity to mount a nationwide campaign remains a key question.
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Sources:
· Daily Post: "I'll be President for four years" – Makinde tells APM North-East meeting
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