The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth League has accused Governor Seyi Makinde of prioritising his alleged 2027 presidential ambition over the pressing needs of the people of the state.
Makinde, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is believed to be among the southern politicians positioning themselves for the party’s presidential ticket in the next general elections. In April, he openly declared that he had what it takes to lead Nigeria.
But in a statement released on Friday, the Oyo APC Youth League Coordinator, Ayobami Dagilogba, described Makinde’s ambition as “unrealistic,” insisting that the governor has diverted state resources to fund personal political interests.
Dagilogba cited the governor’s recent distribution of luxury cars to selected individuals in the state as an example of what he called a “Father Christmas” approach to governance, which, according to him, stands in stark contrast to the realities confronting ordinary citizens.
The group further accused Makinde of failing to provide model schools, neglecting the health sector as doctors continue to leave state hospitals, stifling grassroots growth through the absence of local government autonomy, and leaving farmers without needed support.
“Instead of tackling these challenges, Governor Makinde is more concerned with chasing an unrealistic presidential dream while Oyo people bear the consequences of neglect,” the statement read.
The youth group also urged the APC to embrace unity and inclusivity ahead of the 2027 elections, warning against internal crises and imposition of candidates. They stressed that only a level playing field, reconciliation of aggrieved members, and inclusion of young people would position the party to reclaim power in the state.
Dagilogba announced that the group will organise a “Tinubu Loyalty Walk” on October 4 to reaffirm its solidarity with President Bola Tinubu and the progressive movement.
Meanwhile, Governor Makinde’s Chief Press Secretary, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, dismissed the APC Youth League’s criticisms, saying, “We shall not dignify the statement with a response.”
The PDP dislodged the APC from Oyo State in 2019 after Abiola Ajimobi’s eight years in office. Since then, the opposition party has struggled to reclaim power, losing two consecutive governorship contests. With the 2027 elections drawing nearer, the APC is intensifying reconciliation efforts to present a united front against the Makinde-led PDP.
