OGUN PDP LEADER CALLS FOR FAIR PLAY, DENOUNCES CALUMNY CAMPAIGNS
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By: Fasasi Hammad
An Ogun State leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and convener of The Alternative Movement, Segun Showunmi, on Friday urged that the 2027 governorship race in the state should focus on a developmental agenda rather than a campaign of calumny aimed at scoring cheap political points.
Showunmi also criticised widespread voter apathy in Nigeria, noting that while citizens frequently discuss the country’s challenges, many fail to participate in elections. He described the low turnout in last Saturday’s Federal Capital Territory council elections, where only about 7.1% of registered voters cast ballots, as particularly regrettable.
Speaking during a visit by Action Alliance leadership to his Abeokuta residence—where he was formally invited to contest the governorship—Showunmi highlighted that the Labour Party in the state had also recently endorsed him, citing his commitment to the people and proven leadership qualities.
On the 2027 election, Showunmi stressed that Ogun West Senatorial District, which has not produced a governor in nearly 50 years, should be considered for the next governorship. He also emphasised that the Constitution of Nigeria already defines eligibility for voting and contesting office, dismissing claims by some politicians questioning candidates’ origins.
“If we were to do DNA tests on all of us, some might be surprised about their own parents,” he said. “How can anyone claim a senator representing Ogun West is not from the state? The eligibility hurdle has already been crossed by serving as a senator. Campaigns should focus on development, not frivolous issues.”
Showunmi also reiterated concerns about low electoral participation, pointing out that although Nigeria has issued over 90 million Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), turnout remains extremely low. He noted that public discussion of governance and politics is widespread, yet meaningful participation is lacking, as demonstrated in the recent Abuja election.
“This is why I founded The Alternative Movement—to raise awareness and encourage citizens to engage actively in the political process. It is unacceptable that a few people determine the fate of over 220 million Nigerians because the majority abstain from voting,” he said.
Showunmi thanked Action Alliance for aligning with his vision, pledging to pursue a developmental agenda if elected. Earlier, the state chairman of Action Alliance, Julius Adebola, said the party approached Showunmi because of his stance against bad governance and his capacity for transparent and effective leadership.
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