2027: PDP CHIEFTAIN URGES MAKINDE TO SHOWCASE ACHIEVEMENTS

A former Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Dr Oluwole Oluyede, has urged Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to focus his presidential campaign on achievements and leadership experience.

Oluyede said Nigerians should assess candidates through measurable results rather than demonstrations of physical fitness.

His comments followed Makinde’s appearance at the Allied Peoples Movement’s South-West town hall meeting in Akure on Thursday.

Makinde, the party’s presidential candidate, told supporters he would emphasise energy and stamina rather than age during the campaign. He then challenged rival candidates to jump down from the stage as he did.

The governor argued that leading Nigeria requires the strength to work long hours and handle demanding national challenges.

Responding in a statement issued in Ado Ekiti on Friday, Oluyede questioned the value of making physical energy a central campaign issue.

He said leadership should be judged by accomplishments, institutions strengthened, people empowered and the legacy a candidate has built.

Oluyede, who founded the Oluyede Progressive Alliance for Renewed Hope Agenda, called on Makinde to present his record for public scrutiny.

“If Governor Makinde believes he is prepared to lead Nigeria, he should show Nigerians his record and allow them to assess it against the responsibilities he seeks to assume,” he said.

His remarks add to the debate over the qualities presidential candidates should demonstrate ahead of the 2027 elections.