Oyo State Governor and presidential hopeful of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Seyi Makinde, has announced plans to implement tax breaks for entrepreneurs if he wins the presidency in 2027. Speaking at a recent town hall meeting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Makinde criticized the current Federal Government's tax policies, claiming they disproportionately burden the poor while favoring the wealthy.

During the meeting, which was attended by party stakeholders from various South-South states, Makinde highlighted his administration's success in increasing Oyo State's internally generated revenue without imposing new taxes. He emphasized the importance of fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship as a key component of his proposed RESET agenda, which aims to stimulate economic growth and reform Nigeria's socio-political landscape.

Makinde stated, "We will reset our economy. We will not all keep waiting for handouts from the federal allocation, because to expand our economy, we need two other elements. You need entrepreneurs." He recounted his own experience as a business owner, asserting that government alone cannot provide all the jobs necessary for economic expansion.

The governor also accused the Federal Government of withholding approximately ₦250 billion in Nigeria LNG dividend payments that should be shared among the states. He urged the government to clarify the distribution of these funds, stating, "Let them provide the amounts meant for the states and local governments in Nigeria."

In response to Makinde's claims, the APM's National Leader and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, encouraged citizens to prioritize candidates' qualifications over monetary influence or age when making political choices. He expressed confidence in Makinde's vision and experience to tackle Nigeria's pressing issues.

The town hall meeting also featured remarks from the APM vice-presidential candidate, Lawal Daura, who reiterated the party's commitment to addressing critical challenges in education, security, and economic welfare. He asserted that the RESET agenda is designed to restore dignity to Nigerians, emphasizing that citizens deserve to live dignified lives free from poverty.

The APM has been actively engaging with communities across Nigeria, having previously held town hall meetings in various regions, including the North-Central, North-West, and North-East. The party aims to build a strong support base as it prepares for the upcoming elections, focusing on listening to the concerns and ideas of the Nigerian populace.