Leadership in Nigerian Politics: Segun Showunmi’s Perspective
Segun Showunmi, the former spokesperson for the Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign Organisation and a national chairmanship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), shares his thoughts with OLUFEMI ADEDIRAN. He talks about the importance of Atiku Abubakar’s recent visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, Katsina State, and discusses other key issues in Nigerian politics, emphasizing the role of leadership.
Some people have said the visit of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other PDP chieftains to former President Muhammadu Buhari was part of the ploy of the North to get power back in 2027. What is your opinion about this?
Leadership in Nigeria is complex and multifaceted, and it is impossible to discuss the country’s political landscape without recognizing former President Muhammadu Buhari’s influence. Buhari’s stature as a significant political figure means that visits to him are not only appropriate but also merited. He speaks sparingly, and when he does, his words carry significant weight. Therefore, consulting with him is a wise move for anyone planning the future of Nigeria.
Atiku Abubakar’s decision to visit Buhari demonstrates political wisdom and foresight. Leaders often face the burden of their followers’ expectations and criticisms. Atiku’s visit signifies his willingness to rise above partisan politics and seek advice from a senior statesman. It shows a commitment to being a leader for all Nigerians, not just his political party or region.
Do you think that northern politicians are preparing to unseat Tinubu in 2027?
Leadership requires deep reflection and strategic thinking. Buhari is not known for conspiracies; he is straightforward and principled. Any notion that he is conspiring against President Bola Tinubu is unfounded. In fact, Buhari is likely to remember Tinubu’s unwavering support during the 2019 elections when others abandoned him. This loyalty is significant and may influence Buhari’s stance in the future.
Ultimately, the future political landscape will depend on the current administration’s performance. If Tinubu’s government succeeds in improving the economy, addressing insecurity, controlling inflation, reducing the cost of living, alleviating poverty, and managing national debt, the Nigerian people will respond positively. However, underestimating Buhari’s influence, especially in the rural North, would be a grave mistake.
Going by the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s government, will you say he is the best option for Nigeria?
Leadership is not just about policy but also about the composition of the team implementing those policies. Tinubu’s administration faces significant challenges due to an unbalanced cabinet. A balanced cabinet is crucial for effective governance as it ensures representation and connectivity with the entire nation.
The current administration has devalued the currency, impacting savings and living standards. Empathy is a critical trait of good leadership, and Tinubu’s government appears to lack this. The delay in addressing workers’ salaries amidst inflation and currency devaluation reflects a disconnect from the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.
These days we see governors abandoning their states and frequently going to Abuja to either see the President or to other places that have nothing to do with the growth of their states. What do you think about this?
Effective leadership demands accountability and presence. Governors should focus on their primary responsibility of governing their states. The trend of governors frequently visiting Abuja reflects a lack of seriousness in governance. The fundamentals of Nigeria’s economy and the challenges faced by the people require dedicated and present leadership at the state level.
The PDP has been plagued by a protracted crisis, leading to its losing elections. Do you agree with some people who believe that the party is cursed?
The leadership dynamics within the PDP reflect the complexities of democratic governance. The party’s internal issues stem from the freedoms inherent in a democratic setup. The current National Working Committee is still firmly in control, and their adherence to party rules is essential.
The PDP’s challenges are not a curse but a result of the democratic processes that allow for freedom of speech, agitation, and expression. The party must continue to follow its rules and work towards internal reform to strengthen its position.
In 2023, some governors on the platform of the PDP worked against the party’s presidential candidate and no punitive action has been taken against them. Don’t you think this may repeat itself in 2027?
The internal politics of the PDP has historical roots. The actions of some governors in 2023 can be seen as a continuation of past political alignments. For the PDP to move forward, it needs leadership that understands these dynamics and can reform the party from within. The focus should be on instilling a new way of doing things and demonstrating that the party has learned from past mistakes.
Do you support the creation of state police?
Leadership at the state level requires the necessary tools to protect citizens. State police would allow for recruitment from within the state, ensuring officers are familiar with local terrain and communities. The advantages of state police, such as improved local security, far outweigh the potential disadvantages. The implementation of state police must be carefully designed to prevent abuse of power.
The Chairman of the PDP in Ogun State, Sikirulaih Ogundele, recently blamed the governorship candidate of the party, Ladi Adebutu, for the party’s loss in 2023. Do you also agree with this?
Leadership within the PDP needs to be more inclusive and accessible. Blaming individuals for electoral losses overlooks the broader issues within the party. Adebutu demonstrated significant electoral strength in 2023, and the party should honor and regard his efforts. The focus should be on building a more cohesive and responsive party structure to succeed in future elections.