By DAYO ADESULU
In a significant endorsement for Nigeria’s political landscape, Hajiya Fadima Ibrahim, a prominent member of the northern elite and a respected business leader based in Kano, has commended Otunba Segun Showunmi for his innovative approach to citizen engagement in politics. Her remarks come as Nigeria looks ahead to the critical 2027 elections, emphasizing the need for a united effort toward a progressive future.
In a statement released on December 16, 2024, Ibrahim highlighted the pervasive issue of corruption as a major barrier to Nigeria’s development. She stressed that recognizing and addressing the deep-rooted corruption and mismanagement of national resources is essential for the country to realize its full potential.
“The National Opposition Movement Coalition (NOMC), aptly termed ‘The Alternative,’ is a transformative movement advocating for a change in political dynamics to rejuvenate democracy in Nigeria,” Ibrahim stated. She underscored the importance of integrity and transparency in politics, questioning why Nigeria, rich in resources, continues to struggle with poverty while other nations flourish.
Ibrahim pointed out that many citizens view politics as a disconnected and ‘dirty’ game, which ironically governs their daily lives—from healthcare and education to infrastructure and food security. She urged Nigerians to recognize the intrinsic link between active political participation and the quality of their lives.
Addressing the challenges of participating in a competitive political landscape, Ibrahim acknowledged that many feel discouraged by the winner-takes-all mentality. However, she emphasized that political engagement is vital for the welfare of the populace and that apathy only perpetuates corruption and poor governance.
Ibrahim praised Showunmi for his commitment to ensuring that politics serves the people, stating, “Today’s political environment must not reward those who exploit public office for personal gain. Initiatives like NOMC are crucial for empowering citizens to influence governance and advocate for their needs, particularly marginalized groups such as women, youth, and people with disabilities.”
Reflecting on the launch of the NOMC on November 25, 2024, Showunmi articulated a vision for a political movement that transcends traditional party lines, advocating for an educational shift in political engagement among Nigerians. He warned against the divisive tactics that hinder national progress and highlighted the importance of unity in the electoral process.
Showunmi’s call to action resonates as he noted that a staggering 85 million registered voters did not participate in the last presidential election, indicating a pressing need for improved civic engagement. He urged Nigerians to fulfill their civic responsibilities and reject practices that undermine democratic values, such as vote buying and selling.
The NOMC initiative aims to foster dialogue across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, encouraging citizens to participate actively in shaping the future of the nation. Engaging voices from various sectors, including the PDP National Women Leader Maimuna Ahmed and former Gombe State House member Usman Kafa, the coalition emphasizes the need for collective action to elevate political discourse and address pressing leadership challenges.
In conclusion, the efforts led by Hajiya Fadima Ibrahim and Otunba Segun Showunmi reflect a growing movement toward a more engaged and responsible political culture in Nigeria, paving the way for meaningful democratic change as the country approaches the 2027 elections.
