The National Chairman of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), Alhaji Yusuf Dantalle, has endorsed the presidential ambition of Seyi Makinde, describing the Oyo State governor as a capable and tested leader with the experience required to reposition Nigeria and restore public confidence in governance.
Speaking on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, on Monday, Dantalle said the APM’s decision to adopt Makinde as its presidential candidate was based on his impressive performance in Oyo State and his demonstrated leadership qualities.
According to him, democracy thrives when citizens are able to elect leaders who can effectively protect their political, social and economic interests.
The APM chairman said the transformation witnessed in Oyo State under Makinde’s administration was evidence of what competent leadership can achieve.
He pointed to improvements in infrastructure, economic stability, security and the general wellbeing of residents, noting that the state had experienced remarkable progress over the past several years. Dantalle expressed confidence that Makinde’s background as an engineer and administrator would enable him to provide effective leadership at the national level.
Dantalle also revealed that Makinde and several politicians who had been affected by internal crises within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had formally joined the APM. He disclosed that many aspirants who initially planned to contest elections on the PDP platform would now pursue their ambitions under the APM banner.
He described political alliances and defections as legitimate features of democratic practice and recalled similar collaborations among opposition parties during previous election cycles.
Addressing concerns about Nigeria allegedly drifting toward a one-party state, Dantalle dismissed the claim, insisting that the country’s democratic space remains vibrant and competitive. He stressed that the emergence of presidential aspirants from several political parties demonstrates the existence of healthy political competition.
He further called for comprehensive electoral reforms, stronger local government administration and improved security across the country, warning that persistent kidnappings, attacks on schools and violence against farmers pose serious threats to national development.
The IPAC chairman maintained that democratic institutions must be strengthened rather than undermined, urging Nigerians to actively participate in the electoral process to bring about desired changes.
He lamented the economic hardship facing many citizens and called on leaders and stakeholders to place national interest above personal considerations. Dantalle concluded by endorsing Makinde’s “Reset Nigeria” agenda, emphasizing the need for transparent elections, accountable governance and a return to the foundational principles of democracy.
