Oyo State Governor and Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, has challenged other contenders in the 2027 presidential election to prove their physical fitness after jumping off a stage at a campaign event in Akure, Ondo State.
Makinde made the challenge on Thursday, October 22, during the APM South-West Presidential Campaign Town Hall Meeting at the Ondo State International Conference Centre, popularly known as The Dome.
Speaking to supporters, the governor argued that physical energy and the ability to cope with the demands of leadership should be considered alongside other qualities when Nigerians assess presidential candidates.
He maintained that he would not make age a central issue in his campaign but would instead focus on the stamina required to handle the country’s challenges.
“While I will not make age an issue of this campaign, I will make energy, having energy, being able to stay up late, have the rigours, have the energy to deal with the challenges that we’re faced as a country,” Makinde said.
The governor subsequently invited rival candidates to perform a similar jump when they appear at their own campaign events, suggesting that Nigerians should consider their physical capabilities before choosing whom to support.
“So please, when they bring their own presidential candidate, let the candidate come here and also jump down! If they can do that, vote for them!” he added.
His demonstration reportedly attracted cheers and chants from supporters at the gathering.
Makinde Unveils APM’s Agenda
Beyond the physical fitness challenge, the meeting served as a platform for the APM to present its policy direction ahead of the 2027 general election.
Makinde outlined a four-point agenda under the party’s “RESET Nigeria” platform, focusing on the economy, education, security and socio-political development.
He also criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of failing to meet Nigerians’ expectations.
Also Read: Kaduna-Kano rail project 90% completed – FG
The Oyo governor pointed to persistent electricity problems and fluctuations in petroleum prices as examples of the economic pressures facing households and businesses.
He questioned the federal government’s approach to managing the economy and called on Nigerians to consider an alternative leadership option in the next presidential election.
Makinde presented the APM as an alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and other political parties, describing the 2027 poll as an opportunity for voters to decide the country’s future direction.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who attended the event, also expressed optimism about the APM’s prospects, describing the party as a major opposition movement.