The National Opposition Movement Coalition, also known as “The Alternative,” has sounded the alarm on the state of Nigeria’s democracy, calling for a national discourse to chart a new course.
Speaking at the South-South town hall meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, National Leader Segun Showunmi expressed concerns that the current practice of democracy has left Nigerians dissatisfied and disillusioned.
Showunmi emphasized the need for a forum of discussion, particularly among opposition political parties, to review the country’s democratic progress. He noted that Nigeria’s democracy requires periodic evaluation, especially when citizens are unhappy and frustrated with the government.
The opposition leader highlighted the importance of understanding why people are not participating in the democratic process, despite collecting their Permanent Voters Cards. He also questioned whether the country’s future should be defined solely by economic transactions.
He stated, “It is because a nation that is practicing democracy like ours must from time to time review what it’s doing, especially when the noise in the country reflects that people are a little bit unhappy and they are frustrated with the reform of the government.
“If you are in a democracy and people are not turning up to vote, not understanding the fact that they’ve collected their Permanent Voters Cards, you need to go back to them to find out why and beg them that they don’t lose faith in democracy.
“You need to figure out how to discuss it with us. Are we going to agree that good buying and good selling is the future of the country? And is it going to be perpetually the future?
“We need to go back and discuss with people then the opposition. Those of us that are not in the ruling party, there’s a need for us to come together and harmonize thoughts.”
Showunmi emphasized the need for a collective conversation to address the country’s democratic challenges. He stressed that Nigeria cannot afford to interpret opposition responsibility as encouraging chaos or demarketing the country. Instead, he advocated for alternative viewpoints that promote constructive dialogue and national growth.
He also highlighted the importance of rekindling the people’s belief and participation in Nigeria’s democratic system.
He emphasized that the movement is a pan-opposition coalition that seeks to engage citizens from all parties in a national conversation.
The goal, he added is to identify the kind of leaders Nigeria needs, understand civic responsibilities, and hold the government accountable in a sensible manner.
When asked if the movement would evolve into a political party ahead of the 2027 general elections, Showunmi stated that it was still early to determine.
He emphasized the need to focus on engaging citizens and searching for quality leaders rather than rushing into party politics.
Meamwhile, the Chairman of the Social Democratic Party in Rivers State, Hon. SensiOsaro, expressed support for the movement, stating that it was time for a reawakening in Nigeria’s political space.
Osaro emphasized the need for opposition parties to come together and work towards a common goal.
The event was attended by leaders of opposition political parties and groups, including the Ijaw Youths Council.