By Isreal Adamu, Jos
Otunba Segun Showunmi, a prominent PDP chieftain and National Coordinator of the National Opposition Movement Coalition (NOMC), has pledged to challenge attitudes that perpetuate division in Nigeria, particularly during election cycles. Showunmi made these remarks at a North East Town Hall meeting held in Bauchi to introduce “The Alternative,” a platform aimed at fostering political reorientation and promoting unity.
Showunmi emphasized that divisive tactics for parochial gains hinder Nigeria’s development and called for a shift toward unity and credible governance. He said, “The attitude that makes Nigeria seem like it is not one country has to go. Our similarities as a people far outweigh our differences. We must reject division and celebrate our unity as Nigerians.”
He highlighted the alarming voter disengagement during the 2023 elections, where only 8 million votes out of 93 million registered voters decided the presidency. According to Showunmi, this apathy, compounded by vote buying, undermines Nigeria’s democratic potential.
“The Alternative” is not a political party but a movement to educate Nigerians on modern political ideologies and credible leadership. Showunmi noted that if entrenched politicians fail to adopt progressive governance, the coalition would mobilize Nigerians to support candidates with integrity, irrespective of their political affiliations.
“This is about the people and the future of our country. We must hold meaningful conversations, rebuild trust in democracy, and ensure collective action to leave a better Nigeria for future generations,” he added.
Hajiya Maimuna Ahmed, representing the National Women PDP Northern Awareness Forum, lauded the movement’s inclusivity. She encouraged women to actively participate in initiatives aimed at nation-building, stressing their critical role in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Similarly, Hon. Usman Kafa, a former Gombe State legislator, urged the North East region to reject vote-buying practices and advocate for leadership that prioritizes public welfare. “We must rise above transactional politics and demand development-oriented leadership,” he said.
The Bauchi meeting is part of a series of town hall engagements organized by the NOMC across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. These gatherings aim to foster dialogue, collaboration, and a collective push for credible governance in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
Showunmi concluded by urging all Nigerians to embrace unity, actively participate in the electoral process, and prioritize the country’s progress over partisan interests.
