“Nigeria must embrace unity and rethink democracy,” Showunmi declares

By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –

The convener of the National Opposition Movement Coalition (NOMC), also known as “The Alternative,” Otunba Segun Showunmi, has called for a renewed commitment to national unity and democratic participation.

Speaking at the North East Town Hall meeting in Bauchi on Thursday, December 12, 2024, Showunmi highlighted the importance of unity in driving the nation’s progress and urged Nigerians to reject divisive attitudes.

“The attitude that makes Nigeria seem like it is not one country has to go. This nation is one, and there is enough evidence to prove that. From our culture to our traditions, the similarities outweigh the differences. Even language, which some consider a dividing factor, is only a means of communication. We must reject division and celebrate our unity as Nigerians,” Showunmi emphasized.

Expressing concern over Nigeria’s declining voter turnout, Showunmi underscored its threat to democracy. He noted that despite 93 million registered voters in the 2023 elections, only 8 million cast their votes to elect the president. “This disengagement, coupled with vote buying and selling, erodes the promise of democracy,” he stated, calling for citizens to take responsibility for the nation’s political future.

Showunmi also called for a shift in the national attitude toward governance, urging Nigerians to focus on addressing national challenges and holding leaders accountable. “This is not about political parties. While I am a member of the PDP, this movement is about the people and the need for collective action. We must educate ourselves, engage in meaningful conversations, and rebuild trust in the democratic system,” he explained.

Praising the Governor of Bauchi State for his support of the initiative, Showunmi acknowledged the state’s progress in inclusiveness and infrastructure development. He described democracy as “the greatest hope for the poor” and urged Nigerians to reclaim their political power.
“If democracy is to work, every citizen must understand their role and rights. The power of one vote can transform lives and elevate communities. We cannot afford to remain passive or sell our future for temporary gains,” he added.

The Bauchi event, part of a series of zonal town hall meetings organized by NOMC, drew participants from across the North East. The initiative aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Following the North Central and North East meetings, the series will move to Kano for the North West zone before reaching the southern regions.

Other speakers reinforced Showunmi’s call for unity and active participation in nation-building. Hajiya Maimuna Ahmed, representing the National Women PDP Northern Awareness Forum, commended the initiative as inclusive and necessary for capturing the voice of all Nigerians.
Former Gombe State legislator Hon. Usman Kafa urged the North East to rise above transactional politics and demand governance that prioritizes the people’s needs.

Through “The Alternative,” NOMC aims to create a platform for Nigerians to address critical national issues and ensure that democracy delivers on its promise of inclusion, progress, and shared prosperity.