The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has dismissed Governor Seyi Makinde’s criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, insisting that Nigerians would not replace “a performing President with a failed governor” in the 2027 general elections.

The party also declared that Nigeria was fortunate that someone like Makinde did not emerge President in the 2023 election.

The party alleged that the Oyo State Governor lacked the capacity and experience required to manage the country’s complex socio-economic challenges.

The Oyo APC, in a statement issued on Wednesday by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, was reacting to comments credited to Makinde at the unveiling of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) candidates in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where the governor reportedly criticised Tinubu’s economic reforms and expressed optimism that the APC would be voted out of power in 2027.

According to the party, Makinde’s criticisms were politically motivated and would not diminish what it described as the achievements of the Tinubu administration.

“The difference between President Bola Tinubu and Governor Seyi Makinde in terms of experience, reputation and results is like the distance between heaven and earth. No amount of warped criticisms and shadow boxing will make Nigerians choose a failed governor to replace a performing President in 2027,” the statement said.

The APC maintained that Tinubu’s policy decisions, though difficult, had attracted commendation from reputable international institutions and were gradually repositioning the country’s economy.

It argued that the President inherited enormous economic and structural challenges in 2023 but had taken bold decisions to prevent national collapse and place the country on the path of sustainable growth.

The party also accused Makinde of benefiting from increased federal allocations under the Tinubu administration while failing to translate the resources into commensurate development in Oyo State.

According to the APC, the governor has little to show in critical areas such as security, infrastructure development, job creation and economic growth despite improved revenues accruing to the state and its 33 local government councils.

The party also alleged that Makinde lacked the credentials to seek the nation’s highest office, insisting that his perceived presidential ambition would not receive the support of Nigerians.

“Gov. Makinde can continue to play to the gallery, but Nigerians know the difference between rhetoric and performance. President Tinubu is focused on rebuilding the nation, and no amount of political grandstanding can erase the gains already being recorded,” the statement added.

The APC urged the governor to concentrate on addressing developmental challenges in Oyo State rather than engaging in what it described as premature presidential politics.