Otunba Segun Showunmi, founder of the National Opposition Movement Coalition (NOMC), also known as “The Alternative,” has called for the establishment of a credible opposition to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic processes. Speaking at the North Central Town Hall meeting of the movement in Jos on Thursday, Showunmi emphasized the urgent need to counterbalance government activities and restore citizens’ faith in the nation’s democracy.
Addressing a gathering of critical stakeholders and youths, Showunmi lamented the erosion of electoral integrity, lack of ideological direction in political parties, and declining voter confidence. He stressed that Nigeria requires leaders who prioritize the interests of citizens over personal or partisan gains.
“The reason for the birth of this movement is the need to rescue our nation and democracy from the danger we see on the horizon,” Showunmi said.
He clarified that the coalition is not a political party but a civic platform aimed at engaging political actors, civil society, and democratic institutions. Through advocacy and voter education, the movement seeks to combat vote trading, which Showunmi described as a “highest bidder heist” that undermines democratic values.
Showunmi expressed concern over the regressive state of Nigeria’s political landscape, criticizing the judiciary’s declining integrity and the increasing influence of violence and non-state actors in elections. Despite improvements in guidelines by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), he argued that elections have become less credible over the years.
The movement also aims to reorient citizens on the dangers of electing leaders with questionable wealth or integrity. Showunmi emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and robust opposition to ensure governance that aligns with the people’s aspirations.
Speaking at the event, Adai Edwin Adai, Chairman of the movement’s North Central Zone, highlighted the critical need to strengthen democracy and promote civic responsibility among Nigerians. He decried the lack of transparency and accountability in government, describing the Nigerian Parliament as “passive and dogmatic” in holding the executive accountable for anti-people policies.
Adai painted a grim picture of the nation’s economic state, pointing to massive unemployment, multiple taxation, and a high cost of doing business. He also criticized the rising inequality and marginalization in wealth distribution, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to address these challenges.
“There is massive corruption in the system, and the standard of living is deteriorating,” Adai stated. “The major essence of this town hall meeting is to reawaken the consciousness of Nigerians to save our shrinking democracy. We must collectively fight against vote buying and electoral malpractices.”
The movement is committed to grassroots engagement, improving political education, and charting a roadmap for credible opposition in Nigeria. “The National Opposition Movement is dedicated to working closely with the people to strengthen our democracy and ensure that the voices of ordinary citizens are heard,” Adai concluded.
The town hall meeting which also featured a panel discussion, with some distinguished persons making a clarion call for Nigerians to take responsibility for the future of their democracy. They urged citizens to actively participate in the political process, holding leaders accountable and ensuring the integrity of future elections.
With its focus on voter education, advocacy, and grassroots mobilization, “The Alternative” seeks to rekindle hope in Nigeria’s democratic institutions and processes, paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
