In a bold move to reawaken democratic values and strengthen opposition politics in Nigeria, leaders from across the South-South region gathered in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, January 16, 2025, for a regional town hall meeting under the banner of “The Alternative” movement. Convened by Otunba Segun Showunmi, the former Ogun State governorship aspirant and leader of the National Opposition Movement Coalition, the event sought to foster unity, accountability, and grassroots political reform.

The meeting brought together a diverse group of political leaders, elder statesmen, women activists, youth representatives, and advocacy groups, all united by a shared vision of redefining opposition politics in Nigeria. The central message was clear: only through collaboration, accountability, and citizen engagement can the country address its growing democratic challenges.

Speaking to the audience, Otunba Segun Showunmi highlighted the critical role of a strong and unified opposition in shaping Nigeria’s political future. “We need to come together and have a collective thought process. Opposition politics should not be about chaos or divisiveness. Instead, it should offer constructive alternatives to governance and inspire hope in the Nigerian people,” he stated.

Showunmi stressed the need for opposition parties to work harmoniously and develop ideological bonds that resonate with citizens. He criticized the tendency of political parties to become weaker versions of the ones they aim to replace, urging them to inspire change from within and deliver genuine solutions.

A key focus of the discussions was the importance of grassroots engagement in driving political reform. Showunmi encouraged citizens to actively participate in the political process, emphasizing that democracy can only thrive when people take ownership of their civic responsibilities. “If we want better leadership, we must be the change we seek. Join political parties, engage in the process, and demand accountability from your leaders,” he urged.

Veteran actress and Labour Party chairman in Rivers State, Hilda Dokubo, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to focus on local issues. “Rivers State is in our hands, and it is what we choose to make it. Let no one distract us from the issues that matter most at the grassroots level,” she said. Dokubo also highlighted the region’s contributions to the nation’s wealth and the need for equitable development.

Another critical topic at the event was the need for greater inclusion of women and minorities in political leadership. Participants criticized the underrepresentation of women in politics and called for reforms to ensure they have equal opportunities. Showunmi questioned the exclusion of women from key political roles, saying, “How can we have women leading banks and corporations but not playing significant roles in our political leadership?”

The discussions also emphasized creating an enabling environment for smaller political parties to thrive, ensuring they are not sidelined in the political process. Hon. Bright Ngola, National Coordinator of the Niger Delta Right Advocate, noted that a robust opposition is essential for holding the government accountable and offering credible alternatives.

Chief Solsuema Osaro, Rivers State chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), called for a reawakening within the opposition, urging parties to prioritize the national interest over personal ambitions. “If we truly want change, we must stand united. Our differences can be resolved through dialogue, but our focus must remain on the common good of the Nigerian people,” he said.

The town hall meeting is part of a larger initiative by “The Alternative” movement to create a national paradigm shift in democratic conversations. Previous meetings have been held in Abuja, Plateau, Bauchi, and Kano, with plans to extend to other regions. Showunmi reaffirmed the movement’s commitment to identifying and promoting capable leaders who can address Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the movement aims to inspire a new wave of citizen participation and leadership accountability. “The earlier we start searching for the right leaders, the better. We need quality people not just at the presidential level but in the legislature and other arms of government,” Showunmi said.

The event concluded with participants pledging to work together to build a strong, united opposition capable of inspiring confidence in Nigerians. As the movement continues its nationwide outreach, it seeks to redefine democracy and chart a new course for Nigeria’s political future.