Akin Alabi Claims Makinde's Presidential Bid Lacks Intent

Akin Alabi, a member of the All Progressives Congress and representative for the Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency, stated during a radio interview on I-Flier 103.3FM in Ibadan on October 6, 2026, that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde does not genuinely intend to run for president in the 2027 elections. Alabi argued that Makinde's presidential campaign is primarily aimed at enhancing the visibility of Bimbo Adekanmbi, the Allied Peoples Movement governorship candidate in Oyo State, whom Makinde is supporting to succeed him.

Alabi suggested that Adekanmbi, a former Commissioner for Finance in Oyo State, would face challenges defeating the APC's candidate, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, without the political platform provided by Makinde's presidential campaign. Makinde officially announced his presidential candidacy on May 14, 2026, during a joint rally at Mapo Hall and subsequently named Lawal Daura as his running mate in August, replacing Ibrahim Bala.

Makinde has actively campaigned for Adekanmbi, expressing confidence in his ability to win the governorship election.