In a bid to address Nigeria’s democratic challenges and foster grassroots participation in leadership selection, Otunba Segun Showunmi, convener of the National Opposition Movement Coalition, The Alternative, has expanded the initiative to the South-South region. The movement was officially launched during a regional town hall meeting held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, January 16, 2025.
Speaking to an audience of political leaders, elder statesmen, women leaders, youth groups, and advocacy organizations, Showunmi emphasized the urgent need to realign Nigeria’s democracy with its core principles. He called on Nigerians to unite in reshaping the nation’s future through active engagement in the political process and by holding leaders accountable. “The best among us must step forward to lead the rest of us,” he declared, stressing the need for visionary leadership that can address the country’s challenges and inspire hope.
He highlighted the importance of fostering dialogue that welcomes diverse perspectives while maintaining unity. “We cannot allow opposition to be synonymous with chaos or divisiveness,” Showunmi said. Instead, he urged for a constructive opposition that offers practical governance alternatives and addresses critical issues such as economic hardship and political instability.
Showunmi raised concerns over the waning sense of civic responsibility among Nigerians, calling for a renewed commitment to democratic principles. He emphasized the need to elect quality leaders across all levels of government, particularly in the legislative arm. “A functional Senate and House of Representatives are critical for good governance,” he noted. Reforms within political parties, he argued, are equally essential to ensure inclusivity and transparency in candidate selection.
Veteran actress and Rivers State Labour Party Chairman, Hilda Dokubo, echoed these sentiments, urging the people of Rivers State to prioritize grassroots involvement. “Rivers State is in our hands—it will become what we choose. Let no one distract us,” she said, emphasizing the region’s economic importance and the need for fair resource distribution.
Hon. Bright Ngola, National Coordinator of the Niger Delta Right Advocate, underlined the critical role of a strong opposition in sustaining democracy. “Without quality opposition, the same issues will persist even after the 2027 elections,” he cautioned, calling for a collective awakening to break the cycle of poor governance. Chief Solsuema Osaro, Rivers State Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), emphasized the importance of ideological unity among opposition parties, urging them to inspire confidence and present a robust challenge to the status quo.
Other political leaders present, including Hon. Ben Ogbobula of the Zenith Labour Party, Hon. Jim Jaja of the NRM, and Hon. Godson of the NNPP, also supported the call for a stronger opposition. A recurring theme was the urgent need to increase women’s participation in politics. Speakers criticized the limited roles available to women in political leadership, calling for reforms to ensure their inclusion in decision-making. “How can women excel as CEOs of banks but remain sidelined in politics?” one participant asked.
The South-South town hall meeting is part of a nationwide series under The Alternative, which has already held gatherings in Abuja, Plateau, Bauchi, and Kano, with plans to expand further. Showunmi explained that the initiative seeks to ignite a national shift in democratic conversations. “This is not just about politics; it’s about reawakening our collective consciousness for the common good of Nigerian citizens,” he said, emphasizing the movement’s focus on empowering citizens to take ownership of the political process.
Showunmi concluded by urging Nigerians to prioritize competence and integrity in leadership selection, noting that the 2027 elections may seem distant, but the groundwork for meaningful change must begin now. “The earlier we start searching for the character that will lead us, the better,” he said.
Participants pledged their commitment to building a unified opposition that offers credible governance alternatives. With the South-South region now actively engaged, The Alternative continues its nationwide mission to redefine democracy and inspire a better future for Nigeria.