To address Nigeria’s critical democratic challenges and promote grassroots involvement in leadership selection, Otunba Segun Showunmi, the convener of the National Opposition Movement Coalition, “The Alternative,” officially launched the movement in the South-South region. The event took place during a regional town hall meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, January 16, 2025.
Addressing an audience comprising political leaders, elder statesmen, women leaders, youth groups, and advocacy organizations, Showunmi emphasized the urgency of reorienting democracy in Nigeria. He called on citizens to unite in deciding the future of the nation, urging them to actively engage in political processes and hold leaders accountable.
“The best among us must step forward to lead the rest of us,” Showunmi declared, stressing the need for visionary and capable leadership. He highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive dialogue, where diverse viewpoints are encouraged without descending into chaos or undermining the nation’s unity.
“We can’t be a nation that interprets opposition responsibility to mean encouraging chaos or demarcating the country,” he stated. Instead, he called for a constructive opposition that offers viable alternatives to governance while working to address the nation’s challenges, including economic struggles and political instability.
Showunmi expressed concerns about the diminishing role of civic responsibility among Nigerians, urging citizens to remain committed to democratic principles. He underscored the importance of identifying quality leaders not only at the presidential level but also in the legislative arm, emphasizing that a functional Senate and House of Representatives are vital for good governance.
“Our focus should be on what kind of leaders we want, who we need, and how to inspire citizens to participate actively in democracy,” he said. He also called for reforms within political parties, advocating for inclusivity and transparency in party primaries.
Veteran actress and Rivers State Labour Party Chairman, Hilda Dokubo, echoed Showunmi’s sentiments, urging citizens to focus on grassroots issues. “Rivers State is in our hands; it is what we choose. Let no one distract us,” she said. Dokubo also highlighted the region’s economic contributions and the need for equitable distribution of resources.
Hon. Bright Ngola, National Coordinator of the Niger Delta Right Advocate, emphasized the role of a strong opposition in providing checks and balances. “Without a quality opposition, the same issues will persist even after the 2027 elections,” he warned, urging for a reawakening to end the cycle of suffering.
Chief Solsuema Osaro, Rivers State chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), called for harmony among opposition parties. He emphasized the need for ideological unity to inspire confidence among Nigerians and create a robust opposition capable of challenging the status quo.
Other political party chairmen who where present at the townhall meeting including, Hon Ben Ogbobula of Zenith Labour Patty, Hon Jim Jaja of NRM and Hon Godson of NNPP, also echoed Showunmi’s call for a strong opposition. A recurring theme at the meeting was the need for greater inclusion of women in politics. Participants criticized the limited roles assigned to women in political parties and called for reforms to increase their participation in decision-making processes. “How can women excel as CEOs of banks but be sidelined in political leadership?” one speaker questioned.
The South-South town hall meeting is part of a nationwide series of regional gatherings under the banner of “The Alternative.” Previous meetings have been held in Abuja, Plateau, Bauchi, and Kano, with plans to expand to other regions. The goal, according to Showunmi, is to create a national paradigm shift in democratic conversations.
“This is not just about politics; it’s about reawakening our consciousness for the common good of Nigerian citizens,” he stated. The movement seeks to empower citizens to take ownership of the political process, emphasizing the need for unity, transparency, and a collective vision for the nation’s future.
As the conversation continues, Showunmi urged Nigerians to prioritize competence and integrity in leadership selection. He noted that while 2027 may seem distant, the groundwork for meaningful change must begin now. “The earlier we start searching for the character that will lead us, the better,” he said.
The event concluded with a commitment from participants to work together in building a strong, unified opposition capable of offering Nigerians credible alternatives in governance. With the South-South region now onboard, “The Alternative” movement continues its march toward reimagining democracy in Nigeria.
