The Presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) for the 2027 general elections, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has proposed an amendment to Nigeria’s electoral system, recommending that presidential candidates must secure at least 50 per cent plus one of the total votes cast to be declared winners.
Makinde argued that the existing constitutional provisions could produce a president without the support of the majority of voters, potentially weakening the level of public acceptance and national legitimacy enjoyed by an elected government.
The Oyo State Governor made the proposal during a live interview on Bauchi Radio Corporation on Friday night, ahead of the formal flag-off of his presidential campaign scheduled for Saturday.
He referenced the 2023 presidential election, in which President Bola Tinubu secured slightly above 34 per cent of the total votes cast, arguing that the outcome demonstrated the need to reconsider the current requirements for winning the presidency.
Makinde explained that under the existing constitutional arrangement, a candidate could emerge president by securing the required geographical spread and at least 25 per cent of votes in two-thirds of the states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory, alongside the required simple majority.
He maintained that the system could allow a candidate to win despite receiving less than half of the total votes cast nationwide.
According to him, the 2023 election results showed that a larger share of voters supported candidates other than the eventual winner, underscoring the need for a broader electoral mandate.
The APM candidate said introducing a 50 per cent plus one threshold would ensure that whoever emerges president enjoys wider public support and greater acceptance across the country.
Beyond electoral reforms, Makinde proposed the formation of a transitional government of national unity, arguing that Nigeria’s security, economic and social challenges required an inclusive administration that would accommodate interests across different regions.
He said his proposed government would prioritise national cooperation and bring together stakeholders to address the country’s numerous challenges.
Makinde also disclosed that he had visited all six geopolitical zones before commencing his state-by-state campaign, explaining that the consultations were aimed at understanding the concerns and expectations of Nigerians.
He said feedback gathered during the engagements had been incorporated into his party’s manifesto to ensure that its proposed policies reflect the needs and aspirations of citizens.
The governor described the proposals as part of his broader reset agenda, which focuses on economic recovery, security, education and social development ahead of the 2027 general elections.
