Segun Sowunmi, a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, has issued a stark warning to Nigerians, particularly political leaders, urging them to refrain from using divisive tribal rhetoric that could plunge the country into chaos.
In a press conference held in Abeokuta, Sowunmi highlighted the fragile state of Nigeria, stressing that the nation is more vulnerable than ever before since its amalgamation in 1914.
Sowunmi, who previously served as the spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar’s 2019 presidential campaign, underscored the growing dangers posed by the excessive tribalization of government policies and the current political climate.
He pointed to the Tinubu administration’s early missteps, such as the devaluation of the naira and the controversial removal of fuel subsidies, warning that these issues, compounded by escalating ethnic tensions, could have devastating consequences for national unity.
“The excessive tribalization narrative of government policies, combined with the economic difficulties we face, are pushing this nation toward a breaking point,” Sowunmi declared.
“If we do not carefully manage our political discourse and avoid deepening ethnic divides, we risk mortally wounding the very concept of Nigeria.”
Sowunmi called on political elites across the country’s geopolitical zones to engage in more responsible and constructive dialogue, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic values and avoiding actions that further fracture the nation.
He stressed that all political leaders, regardless of their positions, must approach governance with an understanding of the complex challenges the nation faces, rather than resorting to divisive rhetoric.
He also criticized President Bola Tinubu’s economic team, labeling it “fourth-rate and southwest dominated,” and urged the president to make key appointments more reflective of Nigeria’s diverse regions to ease tensions.
Sowunmi suggested that such steps could help mitigate the growing discontent among Nigerians and foster a more inclusive atmosphere within the government.
In an effort to combat the rising tide of tribal rhetoric, Sowunmi has introduced ‘The Alternative,’ an initiative aimed at promoting alternative approaches to governance, democracy, and political engagement.
“We must adopt new ways of doing things to preserve the progress we’ve made over the years,” he urged, stressing that the nation’s future depends on shifting the narrative away from ethnic polarization.
As the PDP prepares for future challenges, Sowunmi also reaffirmed his aspiration to become the party’s National Chairman, positioning himself as the key figure capable of revitalizing the party and reclaiming its leadership position in Nigerian politics.
“I am the one who can reposition and reinvigorate the PDP,” he asserted. “We must reclaim our place as the foremost political party in Nigeria.”
Sowunmi’s call to action comes at a time when Nigeria faces critical challenges—economic, political, and social—that require a united and focused leadership.
Whether his warnings will be heeded remains to be seen, but his message is clear: the path forward requires responsible leadership and a commitment to national unity above all else.
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