The Allied People’s Movement has dismissed criticism of its 2027 presidential candidate, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, insisting he has the support needed to defeat President Bola Tinubu in next year’s election.

In a statement, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, said recent remarks from the presidency reflect growing anxiety over Makinde’s popularity ahead of the vote, arguing that responding to the governor through public criticism rather than policy debate signals concern about the coming contest. The party said the 2027 election would ultimately be a contest between Makinde and Tinubu, citing what it described as Makinde’s record of improving Oyo State’s economy as evidence that his agenda would resonate with voters, particularly younger Nigerians seeking better economic opportunities.