Segun Showunmi asserts that APC and Tinubu secured their victories through manipulative tactics, and their governance is now marked by confusion.

Segun Showunmi, former spokesperson for the Atiku Abubakar Campaign Organisation and a contender for the national chairmanship position in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), asserted that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and its presidential candidate, President Bola Tinubu, are experiencing confusion following alleged electoral manipulation that brought them to power.

Showunmi attributed the current challenges in the country to the perceived confusion of the President, citing it as a significant factor contributing to the prevailing hardships. He expressed these views during the PDP’s end-of-the-year party in Ogun State on Saturday.

According to Showunmi, the APC has manipulated its way into power but is now grappling with confusion, resulting in a lack of effective governance. He highlighted issues such as the high cost of living, soaring inflation, and general unhappiness among the populace. Showunmi criticized the APC as a party devoid of focus and direction, characterizing it as a group that primarily engages in condolences and lacks a clear vision.

In a related development, it was reported that Ladi Adebutu, the PDP candidate in the last election, faced allegations of fleeing the country due to accusations of vote buying during the gubernatorial election on March 18th. Upon his return, Adebutu reportedly presented himself at the police headquarters in the state, provided a statement, and subsequently departed.

Showunmi, however, accused the APC of trying to intimidate the PDP, affirming that his party cannot be easily influenced.

“In Nigeria, it’s a common tactic for political opponents, especially those in power, to go to great lengths and spare no expense to create challenges for their rivals. Our purpose here today is to express solidarity with our party and the candidate who contested the last election in Ogun state. We want to make it clear that the rumors circulating are unfounded. Thankfully, he has presented himself before the police, and that chapter is now behind us.

“But let it be known that democracy cannot flourish in an environment of intimidation. During the 16 years that the PDP governed the country, I do not recall instances of bullying the opposition. Those currently in power should desist from such practices. We are not a party that can be bullied or coerced,” he emphasized.

Speaking about his aspiration to vie for the position of the national chairmanship of the PDP, Atiku’s former spokesperson highlighted the need for a paradigm shift within the party.

“A political party that has been in existence for 25 years must undergo a thorough review to correct its mistakes and embrace new perspectives that set it apart from others. People are not just asking for any chairman; they are expressing their preference for Otunba Segun Showunmi. If the leaders and colleagues wish it, I will strive to lead with insight, bringing about a paradigm shift from the past.

“Having had chairpersons from every other zone, it’s now about more than just regional considerations. It’s about selecting someone with passion, capability, tenacity, wisdom, and competence to steer the party in the right direction,” he explained.