A former spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar, Segun Showunmi, has revealed that the ex-presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains undecided about contesting in the 2027 general elections.
Showunmi made this known in Abuja during the launch of the National Opposition Movement, a coalition aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s opposition politics.
According to him, he has asked Atiku twice about his plans for 2027 but has received no clear response.
“Atiku has not told me if he is running,” Showunmi said.
“I have asked him two times. If I ask him one more time and he does not answer, that is it.”
He stressed that Nigeria’s development goes beyond individual ambitions, adding that the country needs leaders with stamina for democracy.
“Any man who has the mind to develop Nigeria, anyone who has the stamina for democracy, is who I will support,” he added.
Showunmi’s comments come amid reports that Atiku and Peter Obi, the Labour Party leader, are considering forming a new political party.
Opposition Struggles with Unity
Sources indicate that Atiku and Obi recently met to discuss creating a fresh political platform to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The discussions come as both politicians grapple with internal crises within their parties.
Atiku’s PDP is embroiled in leadership battles, while Obi faces challenges with Labour Party chairman Julius Abure.
Analysts suggest that their talks signal a desire to unite the opposition ahead of the 2027 elections.
“If the opposition had been united in 2023, Tinubu would not have won,” a political analyst said.
Movement to Rescue Democracy
The National Opposition Movement launched by Showunmi aims to fill the gap created by what he described as a “weak opposition.”
He criticized opposition politicians for failing to hold the government accountable.
“Respect for party supremacy is at an all-time low,” Showunmi lamented.
He also warned of the dangers facing Nigeria’s democracy if the status quo persists.
“There is an urgent need to rescue our nation from the danger we see on the horizon,” he said.
The coalition plans to engage stakeholders, educate citizens on democracy, and advocate against vote-buying.
“Trading in votes for a token has ruined our democracy,” Showunmi emphasized.
He further accused corrupt leaders of looting the country’s resources while pretending to uphold democratic ideals.
“Persons of questionable wealth cannot seize the reins of power under the guise of democracy,” he added.
