‘Tinubu Should Quit Presidential Race If He Can’t Campaign‘- Makinde
The presidential campaign organisation of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has challenged President Bola Tinubu to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race if he is unwilling or unable to campaign across the country and defend his administration’s record before Nigerians.
The organisation accused the President of avoiding direct engagement with voters amid growing concerns over economic hardship, insecurity and the impact of his administration’s policies on citizens.
The Director of Strategic Communications of the Makinde campaign organisation, Richard Ihediwa, stated this in a statement issued on Thursday in reaction to Tinubu’s declaration that he might not attend every campaign rally organised by the All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tinubu had, during the inauguration of the APC Presidential Campaign Council in Abuja on Wednesday, said he would not accompany the campaign team to every state, explaining that he needed to prioritise governance, the country’s financial obligations and efforts to attract investors.
Reacting, the campaign organisation argued that a president seeking re-election should be prepared to face the electorate, explain his policies and account for his performance in office.
It described Tinubu’s decision as a sign of reluctance to confront public dissatisfaction, insisting that Nigerians deserved the opportunity to question the President directly about the state of the economy, security and other national challenges.
The organisation also criticised the Federal Government’s handling of the economy, alleging that the removal of the petrol subsidy and the floating of the naira had worsened hardship for millions of Nigerians.
It further accused the administration of failing to deliver on its promises to improve electricity supply, strengthen national security and ease the burden of rising living costs.
The campaign organisation maintained that the effects of government policies on ordinary citizens should form a central part of the assessment of any administration seeking another mandate.
“If President Tinubu is so fatigued that he cannot go round the country to canvass for votes, then he should withdraw from the race,” the organisation said.
It also promoted Makinde’s presidential ambition under the Allied Peoples Movement, describing him as an alternative capable of addressing Nigeria’s economic, security and social challenges through his proposed RESET NIGERIA Agenda.
The organisation said Makinde had been engaging with Nigerians and presenting his vision for the country, adding that voters should have the opportunity to compare the records and policy proposals of presidential contenders ahead of the 2027 elections.
Tinubu’s position has sparked political debate, with opposition figures arguing that he should personally defend his administration’s record before seeking another mandate, while the President has maintained that his responsibilities as head of state require him to balance campaign activities with governance.
The 2027 presidential election is expected to feature intense debate over economic reforms, the cost of living, insecurity, employment and the performance of the current administration.
