2027: Makinde Reveals Atiku Asked Him to Be Running Mate, Gives Reason He Rejected Offer

According to a report published by DAILY POST on Friday, November 13, 2026, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has disclosed that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar approached him with an offer to become his running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Makinde made the revelation during an interview on Arise Television on Friday, where he discussed political developments and consultations taking place ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

The governor explained that Atiku and members of his political camp reached out to him to discuss the possibility of joining the presidential ticket as the vice-presidential candidate. However, Makinde said he turned down the proposal and encouraged the former vice president’s team to consider other individuals for the position.

According to the Oyo State governor, accepting the offer could have provided him with a straightforward route towards advancing his political interests if personal ambition had been his major motivation.

He explained that the opportunity was significant but maintained that he was not prepared to accept the position simply because it offered political advantages.

Speaking during the interview, Makinde stated, “Atiku’s people approached me to run with him as running mate; If ambition was to drive me, that was actually the surest path.”

His disclosure has generated fresh interest in the political negotiations and behind-the-scenes discussions involving opposition leaders as preparations gradually intensify for the 2027 general elections.

The development also provides an insight into the efforts being made by political figures to build alliances and assemble formidable presidential tickets capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next election.

Makinde’s decision to reject the offer is particularly significant given his position as a sitting governor and his influence within the opposition political landscape. His response suggests that the discussions surrounding the 2027 presidential contest have involved several prominent politicians whose individual ambitions and political calculations could influence the eventual alliances.

Meanwhile, DAILY POST reports that former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, was eventually chosen to occupy the vice-presidential position on Atiku’s ticket following Makinde’s rejection of the proposal.

The revelation adds another dimension to the unfolding political activities ahead of 2027, as attention remains focused on the alliances, negotiations and strategic decisions that could shape the presidential contest.

Elonxxcc feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com