The Convener of The Alternative, a political pressure group, Otunba Segun Showunmi, has observed that the country is drifting away from the Pan-Nigerian ideals that once defined its democratic journey.
Penpushing reports that Showunmi made the observation while featuring as a guest of radio station in Abeokuta, while he pointed out a poignant critique of Nigeria’s current political landscape.
The Chieftain of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) warning on the danger associated with it and equally reflected on the necessity of maintaining political boundaries that allow for healthy cooperation rather than tribal friction, and emphasised that while different regions may choose different political paths, the goal must remain national progress.
“We can create boundaries that still allow for cooperation,” Showunmi stated. “But I’m not going to accept that the madness is the madness that I’m going to tolerate just because it will make sense’, he said
Penpushing further reports that Showunmi raised a critical question regarding the timeline for achieving a truly identical or unified government in Nigeria, lamenting the recurring use of tribe and fear during election cycles to achieve political ends.
The known frankly speaking politician pointed out that such tactics undermine the democratic spirit established during the transition to civil rule in 1999, as he recalled the formation of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Penpushing also reports that Showunmi highlighted its origin as a Pan-Nigerian Party designed to prevent the country from fracturing into tribalistic camps, noting that the initial push for democracy was built on a collective desire to move past the era of bad candidates and military rule.
The former Governorship aspirant analysing the current ruling party, described the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a structure built primarily on two major pillars: the influence of Muhammadu Buhari and the southern political interests represented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Penpushing reports that Showunmi between the duo the party attempts to maintain its national reach, and while addressing the emergence of new political movements, expressed concern over the attitude of certain modern political actors.
The political gladiator noted that while there is pressure to create new platforms, the aggressive nature of some supporters specifically referencing the Obedient Movement has inadvertently discouraged broader coalition-building.
Penpushing further reports that Showunmi pointed out that a lot of people who have expressed happiness over the last few days, have backed out now, observing suggesting that the current political climate makes it difficult to form a truly inclusive, democratized party.
The Egba born politician warned that without a shift in mindset, efforts to democratize Nigeria as a political country, it will continue to face the same cyclical failures, leaving the nation trapped in a loop of tribalism and division.
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