*Ibarapakan Hails Makinde Over PDP-APM Coalition, Describes His Presidential Declaration as Courageous*

Member representing Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency, Hon. Dr. Anthony Adebayo Adepoju, has commended the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for the grand alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), describing the development as a courageous and strategic effort towards strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and preventing the emergence of a one-party system.

The PDP and APM held their grand alliance rally at the popular Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the state capital, on Thursday, May 14, 2026, where teeming supporters of the two political parties came together to chart a course for the 2027 general election.

At the well-attended gathering, the National Chairman of the APM, Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, showered praises on Governor Makinde for being a hero of democracy and for all that he stands for, saying the present administration has shown that it does not want any opposition to exist.

The National Chairman said the leadership style of the Governor of Oyo State has endeared him to many people, and it is the reason the APM has allowed the governor to field all his candidates under the party in the state.

Fielding questions from journalists at the event, Hon. Adepoju noted that the alliance came at a crucial period in the nation’s political history when many Nigerians are increasingly concerned about the obvious attempts by the ruling All Progressives Congress administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to stifle opposition parties.

According to him, the coalition between the PDP and APM has reset hope among citizens who strongly believe in political plurality, inclusiveness and democratic balance.

The federal lawmaker applauded Governor Makinde for his courage, foresight and determination in declaring for the office of President under the APM platform. He described the governor’s decision as a bold move capable of inspiring many Nigerians, especially young people, who desire visionary leadership and a more people-oriented government.

Hon. Adepoju also commended leaders, stakeholders and loyalists of both the PDP and APM in Oyo State for remaining resolute despite different political pressures and machinations targeted at weakening opposition structures across the country.

The Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Character stated that their unity and steadfastness have once again proven that democracy thrives best where multiple political voices are allowed to coexist freely.

He described today’s grand alliance as more than a political arrangement, stressing that it represents a collective commitment to justice, fairness, accountability and national development.

The federal lawmaker cum technocrat said the partnership would strengthen grassroots political participation while creating an alternative platform for progressive-minded Nigerians committed to the advancement of democratic ideals.

The House of Representatives candidate of the APM for Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency in the 2027 general election stressed that Governor Makinde has continued to distinguish himself as a courageous leader who places the interests of the people above political intimidation or personal comfort. He noted that the alliance would go a long way in energising democratic forces across Oyo State and beyond ahead of future political engagements.

The lawmaker, however, congratulated all leaders and stakeholders involved in the coalition and expressed optimism that the alliance between the PDP and APM would positively reshape Nigeria’s political terrain while reinforcing the principle that democracy can only flourish where healthy opposition and political diversity are protected.

Hassan Adesodi Olaoniye
Special Adviser to Hon. Adebayo Adepoju
(Media and Publicity)
May 14, 2026