Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi has thrown his support behind Allied Peoples Movement presidential candidate Seyi Makinde, declaring that the Oyo State governor is qualified to become Nigeria’s president.
Obi made the statement in Abuja during the inauguration of Makinde’s presidential campaign office, where he joined other political figures and supporters to show solidarity with the APM candidate.
The endorsement could send a strong political signal across the region, widely seen as a key part of President Bola Tinubu’s support base, as the presidential race heats up.
Obi said his presence at the campaign office was aimed at demonstrating support for Makinde and promoting a politics built around unity rather than division.
He said Makinde has the necessary qualification to contest for the presidency and urged Nigerians to make their choice freely through a credible electoral process.
According to Obi, the country is facing serious economic and social challenges, including widespread poverty and hunger, which require political leaders to put national interest ahead of personal ambition.
He stressed that his position was not driven by desperation but by the need for Nigerians to unite and work towards building a better country.
Obi also said he would be prepared to work with whoever emerges victorious through a free, fair and credible election, arguing that political differences should not prevent leaders from joining forces to protect the country.
The NDC candidate called for an end to political quarrels and disagreements, saying politicians should focus their energy on addressing the problems facing ordinary Nigerians.
He said the goal should be to create a country where every citizen, regardless of family background or political connections, has an opportunity to succeed.
Obi maintained that Nigeria cannot continue on its current path and urged politicians across party lines to put the welfare of the people at the centre of their campaigns.
His appearance at Makinde’s campaign office represents a notable show of political solidarity between two opposition figures and could become significant as parties intensify efforts to build support ahead of the election.
The development also places renewed attention on the political calculations in the South West, where Tinubu has traditionally enjoyed strong support and where opposition candidates are seeking to make inroads.
With Obi now openly backing Makinde’s presidential ambition, the move could encourage wider discussions among opposition supporters about cooperation, alliances and the possibility of a stronger challenge to the ruling political establishment.
Obi said the ultimate responsibility lies with Nigerians to choose their leaders and ensure that the electoral process produces a legitimate winner.
