By Desire Emmanuel
Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, on Saturday, May 30, got the presidential ticket of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), unveiling what he described as ‘Reset Nigeria Agenda’ and promising a comprehensive reset of governance, security and economic management in the country.
The formal declaration of his presidential ambition was held at the Theophilus Ogunlesi Hall, Ibadan and it attracted political stakeholders, delegates, party leaders and coalition partners from across the country, including members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other allied political groups.
Accepting the ticket, Makinde said his ambition was driven not by personal interest but by the need to restore public confidence in leadership and rebuild hope among Nigerians.
“I stand before you today with deep humility and a profound sense of responsibility as I accept the nomination to serve as the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement for the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
While describing the occasion as a significant milestone, the Oyo state governor noted that prevailing security and economic challenges across the country had turned what should have been a celebration into a moment of sober reflection.
“Millions of our people are burdened by hunger, insecurity, rising transportation costs, unemployment and uncertainty about the future. Across the country, Nigerians are asking the same question, When will leadership truly begin to work for the ordinary citizen?” he said
“Nigeria must reset. We cannot continue recycling the same approaches while expecting different outcomes. A new direction must emerge — one founded on competence, courage, accountability and compassion,” Makinde added.
Makinde devoted considerable attention to the nation’s worsening security situation, arguing that governors have been placed in an impossible position by being designated chief security officers without possessing operational control over security agencies.
Referring to recent security incidents in Oyo State and other parts of the country, he said state governments must be empowered to respond effectively to threats within their jurisdictions.
“As President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, by the grace of God, I will work to reform our national security architecture so that states are no longer left helpless in moments of crisis. The decentralisation necessary for more effective security management will be prioritised,” Makinde stated.
