Former Ogun State governorship candidate, Segun Sowunmi, has sharply criticised his former political principal, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, over what he described as decades-long, uninspiring presidential ambitions that have destabilised Nigeria’s political landscape.

 

Speaking on Channels Television’s ‘LunchTime Politics’ on Tuesday, Sowunmi condemned Atiku’s repeated bids for the presidency, dating back to 1992, arguing that his political tactics are divisive and outdated.

 

“With your petty politics, you’re destabilising the country, you’re instigating the people, and you’re not even allowing those running the government the sense and stability to function,” Sowunmi said.

 

 

 

He further claimed that Atiku, despite his long-standing ambition, has failed to articulate any inspirational or transformative ideas that could move the country forward.

 

“What are you bringing? Haven’t we tried you before? Haven’t we tested you? We don’t owe you the presidency of Nigeria. And if we must return the presidency to the North in 2027, you better find us a younger, sharper, and more agile northerner. We are done with the 1992 guys,” he added.

 

 

 

Sowunmi stressed that Nigeria’s presidency is not anyone’s birthright, and called on Nigerians to reject career politicians who have dominated the political space for over three decades without offering meaningful change.

 

On the Opposition Coalition

 

Sowunmi also took a swipe at the leadership of the emerging opposition coalition, asserting that only Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, is giving the movement any real momentum.

 

“If Peter Obi hadn’t performed well in the last election, there wouldn’t even be a coalition. He’s the only one energising it,” Sowunmi said.

 

 

 

His comments come amid ongoing discussions and alignments among opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections, where the focus is shifting toward a new generation of leaders capable of redefining Nigeria’s democratic and economic trajectory.