By Israel Adamu, Jos
Otunba Segun Showunmi, a PDP chieftain and National Coordinator of the National Opposition Movement Coalition (NOMC), codenamed “The Alternative,” has called for an end to divisive attitudes that undermine national unity and progress in Nigeria. He emphasized that these attitudes, especially prevalent during election cycles, hinder the country’s development and contribute to economic decay.
Speaking at a North East Town Hall meeting in Bauchi, Showunmi stated that if these attitudes were not eradicated, Nigeria would continue on its current path of misrule. He further explained that the National Opposition Movement Coalition, launched on November 25, 2024, is not a political platform but a movement aimed at educating Nigerians to abandon old, divisive political practices and adopt a more progressive, inclusive approach.
Showunmi stressed the importance of political reorientation as the only viable solution to address the country’s issues. He argued that while “The Alternative” would not endorse any particular political party, it would push for credible candidates who are focused on the collective good of Nigeria, regardless of their party affiliation.
He recalled the sacrifices made by previous generations to secure Nigeria’s independence and democracy, questioning what this generation was fighting for. He urged Nigerians to actively participate in the electoral process, noting that the attitude that divides the nation must be rejected in favor of unity.
Showunmi also pointed out that in the 2023 elections, despite 93 million registered voters, only 8 million votes determined the presidency, highlighting the low voter turnout and the negative impact of vote-buying. This, he said, undermines the promise of democracy.
“This movement is about the people and collective action,” Showunmi said. “We need to educate and sensitize ourselves, hold meaningful conversations, and rebuild trust in the democratic system.”
Hajiya Maimuna Ahmed of the National Women PDP Northern Awareness Forum praised the movement’s inclusivity and emphasized the critical role women must play in nation-building. She called for active female participation in initiatives aimed at shaping Nigeria’s future.
Former Gombe State House of Assembly member Hon. Usman Kafa also addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of good leadership and political awareness. He urged the North East to rise above vote-buying and advocate for leadership that prioritizes the welfare of the people.
The Bauchi event was part of a series of zonal town hall meetings organized by the National Opposition Movement Coalition to foster dialogue and collaboration across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
